Snapshot Dimension
Snapshot Dimension
The Snapshot Dimension in AnalyticsCreator is used to create a reference dimension that captures the state of data at a specific point in time. It provides the ability to track historical snapshots of data marts or facts, allowing time-based comparisons such as “as of” reporting and trend analysis.
Function
The Snapshot Dimension automatically generates a reference table that stores snapshot points used in star schemas. This enables analysis of how data changes over time by associating facts with specific snapshot instances. It supports the management of multiple snapshots across different models or stars.
Access
The Snapshot Dimension can be created via DWH → Transformations → Snapshot Dimension in the main AnalyticsCreator interface.
Properties
| ID | Property | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Schema | Specifies the schema where the snapshot dimension will be created (e.g., DWH). |
| 2 | Name | Defines the name of the snapshot dimension table (e.g., DIM_Snapshot). |
| 3 | Stars | Lists the star schemas that can be linked to this snapshot dimension. |
| 4 | Transformation | Displays available transformations that can be associated with the snapshot dimension. |
| 5 | Add to Star | Adds the selected star schema to the snapshot relationship. |
| 6 | Remove from Star | Removes the selected star schema from the snapshot relationship. |
Screen Overview
The image below shows the New Snapshot Dimension dialog with labeled properties and actions for defining a snapshot dimension.
Generated Columns
The Snapshot Dimension automatically generates a simple table containing key metadata columns:
| Column | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| SATZ_ID | Unique identifier for each snapshot record (surrogate key). | 1 |
| SnapshotDate | The date when the snapshot was taken. | 2025-01-01 |
| SnapshotName | A descriptive name for the snapshot instance. | Month-End Snapshot |
| SnapshotDescription | Optional detailed description of the snapshot. | Data as of 31st December 2024 |
Behavior
- The snapshot dimension serves as a temporal reference for facts in the data warehouse.
- It enables “as of” analysis, where measures can be compared across different snapshot periods.
- Each snapshot record represents a distinct point in time, defined either automatically or manually.
- It can be linked to multiple star schemas for shared temporal analysis.
Notes
- Each snapshot represents a full copy of data at a specific time period (e.g., end of month, end of year).
- The DIM_Snapshot table can be used as a shared time reference across multiple facts or stars.
- Snapshots are useful for versioning and tracking changes in slowly changing data.
- Automated snapshot generation can be managed within AnalyticsCreator's deployment settings.
