These are important considerations when deciding on what transformation and replication tool to use. Transformation Many tools simply copy entire databases from one system to another. This may be desirable in some instances, but most companies implementing a data warehouse require the ability to select, filter and transform production data so that only relevant information in an appropriate format is stored in the warehouse. With many data replication tools, custom applications have to be developed and extensive programming may be necessary to accommodate the task of data transformation. DataMirror Transformation Server is set apart from other replication software with its built-in transformation capabilities.
Transformation refers to the ability to alter the data being moved into the warehouse.
A simple example of the power of data transformation involves multi-location businesses or companies that have merged with or acquired other interests. In many cases, companies with branch offices use different naming conventions, codes and file names in their local databases. Similarly, codes, naming conventions and other values of acquired companies are rarely the same. When consolidated in a data warehouse, this presents significant obstacles to those making decisions based on this obscure information. DataMirror Transformation Server remedies these discrepancies.