The timeXtender ETL and data warehousing technology is used by more than 1500 companies worldwide.
timeXtender is a Microsoft SQL Server based tool that simplifies the implementation of the ETL and data warehousing process. timeXtender enables agile dimensional modeling and supports the Kimball data warehousing methodology.
timeXtender also offers the CubeStore. In the CubeStore our Partners are offering different pre-build BI templates for different back end systems and vertical segments. The CubeStore are based on Microsoft Azure and are on the most sophisticated solutions in the market for offering pre-build content with full IP protection.
timeXtender are also offering a whole set of Methodology and Best Practice tools for getting the most out of the software and to support that our Customers and Partners get the Agile and Rapid results and by that fast ROI.
Agile Data Warehousing
Dimensional modeling in metadata
In timeXtender, the data warehouse model is designed in metadata, and you have one single metadata model where you design and make changes to your entire project. timeXtender supports the Kimball methodology of dimensional modeling and enables you to design snowflake schemas – and star schemas if required.
An agile approach to data warehousing
Requirements for the data warehouse change constantly, and it therefore makes sense to apply agile methodologies to data warehouse implementations. timeXtender’s agile approach supports short iterations that enable you to keep up with the changing requirements. It also means that your dimensional model is constantly kept up-to-date.
Microsoft SQL Server
timeXtender works with Microsoft SQL Server and provides a robust and stable base for your data warehouse. timeXtender utilizes and enhances the features of Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) and Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS).
Fully documented data warehouse project
All data warehouse projects in timeXtender are fully documented and there’s complete version control. The documentation is valid for IT Audit under Sarbanes-Oxley.
Track historical data with slowly changing dimensions
The ability to track historically accurate values for dimension attributes is crucial. timeXtender supports easy implementation of slowly changing dimensions so that you can analyze on how the attribute has changed over time.
Deployment across multiple environments
You can deploy solutions across multiple environments such as development, test and production and there’s a complete trace of the different versions deployed on each environment. It is also possible to deploy multiple projects to the same SSAS database.
ETL – Extract, Transform and Load Data
The extract, transform and load (ETL) process is critical to any data warehousing project. Using the timeXtender ETL and data warehousing tool, you will achieve several benefits.
Extract data from multiple data sources
Most organizations store data in a variety of places and therefore their data warehousing solution must include data from all sources to provide reliable information. For the ETL process timeXtender extracts data to from all your company’s data sources such as ERP and CRM systems, spreadsheets, and commercial databases. You can maintain multiple data sources in one process and add new data sources on the fly.
Auto-generated SQL code
With timeXtender you do not have to hand code the ETL process. You design the process in metadata and timeXtender then auto-generates the SQL code. As a result, you achieve a unified development process, consistent code and reduce the manual workload.
Data integration
timeXtender’s ETL software supports both full and incremental load to ensure the highest level of performance. Using incremental load you capture only the relevant source data changes that have happened since the last load. You decide which strategy you prefer.
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How the timeXtender ETL and Data Warehousing Software Works
The timeXtender tool combines an agile approach with Dr. Ralph Kimball’s dimensional modeling methodology. This approach results in rapid iterations that show the value of ETL and data warehousing to users immediately.
timeXtender utilizes and enhances Microsoft SQL Server’s data integration platform, SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS), and Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS).
Data integration with ETL – extract, transform, and load
For the ETL process timeXtender extracts data to from all your company’s information sources such as ERP and CRM systems, spreadsheets, and commercial databases. You then specify a set of rules to transform the data before loading it into a staging database, and then from the staging area into the data warehouse. timeXtender comes with adapters for systems such as Microsoft CRM Online, Microsoft Dynamics AX and NAV, and SAP R/3.
Data warehousing – loading and storing data
All the information you need for reporting and analysis is now stored in one comprehensive and easily managed database. The data warehouse is managed in a graphical user interface, and gives you a solid reporting foundation.
Analysis and OLAP cubes
Having built the data warehouse, you can use timeXtender to build OLAP cubes – or you can view reports, for example, in PowerPivot or SharePoint. OLAP cubes in timeXtender are designed in the same interface as the data warehouse.
Once your project is ready you deploy the project and timeXtender automatically generates the required SQL code and SSIS packages.