3. Architect

3.1. Description

The third phase of the SQL Power Methodology designs the intended Business Intelligence solution. During this phase the architecture of the solution is finalized and all the necessary logical pieces (such as: Logical Data Models, Metadata Repository, ETL Application Architecture, and Design Document) are put in place. The plan for system integration testing is developed, and Capacity and Support Plans are also drafted in this phase. Originating systems and source data quality are analyzed and detailed, and ETL interfaces (including source-to-target mapping) are designed and documented.

In some cases, a reporting prototype can be created to verify business requirements with the users.

3.2. Objectives

The objectives of this phase include:

• Perform detailed analysis of the source data
• Define technical architecture requirements
• Assess data quality
• Design target data warehouse architecture
• Define and design ETL interfaces
• Define test plan
• Define infrastructure capacity plan
• Define data warehouse support plan

3.3. Inputs

The inputs for this phase include:

• Project Charter
• Technology assessment
• Source data
• Business requirements
• Required resources

3.4. Activities/Tasks

The activities of this phase include:

1. Review Technical Architecture
2. Perform Detailed Analysis
3. Conduct Data Quality Assessment
4. Perform Detailed Design
   1. 4.1. Data Modeling (logical, physical)
   2. 4.2. ETL Interface Design
   3. 4.3. BI Reporting Design
5. Build BI Prototype (optional)
6. Review and refine project plan
7. Negotiate Interface Agreements
8. Formulate Test Plan
9. Prepare Capacity Plan
10. Create Support Plan

3.5. Deliverables

The deliverables of this phase include:

• Logical and physical data models for:
  • Data Audit Repository
  • Metadata Repository
• Design Document of the ETL/Interface Application design, including:
  • Source-To-Target mappings
  • ETL Modules/Procedures design
  • ETL Process Dependencies and Schedule design
• Test Plan
• Capacity Plan
• Support Plan

The Architect phase will produce the design of the intended BI solution, including all the necessary specifications to start building the actual system.