Specifying a Descriptor ID for a Dataset Column
In Oracle Analytics, descriptor columns provide user-friendly labels for database key values that support usability and accurate filtering, sorting, and analysis.
A descriptor column is a column that contains the value shown to users, such as a product name, customer name, or location description. A descriptor ID is the associated code or identifier column that uniquely identifies the displayed value. For example, PRODUCT_NAME can be a descriptor column and PROD_ID can be its descriptor ID. In a workbook, users see and select product names. Oracle Analytics can use the associated product IDs when it filters, partitions, or groups data.
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This relationship is also known as double-column support. It enables Oracle Analytics use a stable, typically numeric identifier for query processing while continuing to display a meaningful description to users.
- Datasets created from connections
- Datasets created from local subject areas
How Descriptor IDs Work
A descriptor ID establishes a relationship between a descriptor column and its identifier column. For example, Descriptor ColumnDescriptor ID PRODUCT_NAMEPROD_ID.
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Although users select product names, Oracle Analytics uses their associated product IDs, such as 14 and 138, to process the filter. The descriptor column remains the user-facing value. The descriptor ID is used internally when Oracle Analytics can use the identifier more efficiently.