After defining the data users need in the Essbase database, define the data sources. Consider these questions:
Consider the quality and integrity of the source data. See Cleansing Data.
Is the data calculated by a procedure and not stored; for example, a discount calculated for a specific product at a specific time?
Create this information as tables in the source database. Consider using a staging area. See Deciding to Create Staging Areas.
Is the data in a single structured query language (SQL) database or in multiple SQL data sources?
Essbase Integration Server can access multiple SQL sources; however, you can consolidate SQL tables into a single SQL data source for each chosen source database.
Is the data in text (flat) files)?
Integration Services supports text files (flat files). If your data is in text files, you need to create text files as tables in the chosen source databases. Consider creating a staging area. See Deciding to Create Staging Areas. Alternatively, after building the Essbase database outline, use Oracle Essbase Administration Services to load data. See Oracle Essbase Administration Services Online Help and Text Files as Data Sources.