A Methodology for the Implementation of a Data Warehouse Using an Etl Process Model for Improved Decision Support

Abstract

The operational processes and functionalities of a data warehouse constitute of a resource-intensive workflow, constituting an important part of the back-end of the System designs. To resolve the intense workflow and to manage the data warehouse operational processes, extraction-transformation-loading (ETL) processes are used. A methodology used for the implementation of an organization’s data warehouse was described in this project. The study’s approach was informed by the need of a data warehouse as a decision support system for Higher Education Loans Board. The purpose of the project was to provide a solution for mining data from several sources; operational, historical and external databases to a central location for reporting and analyzing. The literature review investigated existing methodologies applied by other researchers. The evaluation of the studies and related surveys aimed at identifying the key elements and characteristics of an effective ETL process model towards the implementation of a data warehouse. A prototype system was developed based on an Entity Mapping Methodology, with each phase of the ETL and data warehouse implementation processes discussed. The research approach employed descriptive and case study designs, where the former pointed at providing perceptions into the research problem by describing the various variables of interest. Data collection was conducted to establish the technological state of affairs at HELB, detailing the existing divergent data sources and System architecture and data management. The project documented the research findings. The study’s target population was twenty-seven (27) respondents. Questionnaires administered to ICT staff, senior and middle level managers was used as a tool to collect data. Twenty-one (21) respondents filled-in the questionnaires, which constituted a response rate of 77.77%. Data analysis is done using Excel and findings demonstrated with tables and charts. From the research findings, it is evident that the goal and specific objectives are met. The methodology ensured that the implementation of the data warehouse reflected HELB’s long-term strategic plan of integrating and automating its processes and improving decision-making. This was evident from users’ response during the system performance evaluation. The ETL process met the expectations of management in analyzing and generating reports in a flexible, simple and friendly way. To realize the full benefit of a data warehouse implementation, it was recommended that HELB would continuously encourage and support staff in embracing data warehousing to reinforce decision-making.