What type of data do "facts" represent in a data warehouse?

What type of data do "facts" represent in a data warehouse?

• A. Descriptive attributes
• B. Statistical metrics about business processes
• C. Historical records only
• D. Operational records

Answer: (B)

"Facts" in a data warehouse refer to measurable, quantitative data that represent statistical metrics about business processes. These facts are typically numerical and can be aggregated, allowing for various calculations and analyses to be performed. For example, sales revenue, quantity sold, or the number of transactions are all considered facts because they can be analyzed to derive insights into business performance. This focus on measurable data distinguishes facts from descriptive attributes, which provide context to the numbers but do not aid in quantitative analysis. While historical records may contribute to the understanding of trends over time, they are not specifically defined as "facts." Operational records, which are real-time data generated during day-to-day operations, differ from the structured and aggregated form that facts take in a data warehouse setting. Therefore, the most accurate representation of "facts" is their role as statistical metrics about business processes.

"Facts" in a data warehouse refer to measurable, quantitative data that represent statistical metrics about business processes. These facts are typically numerical and can be aggregated, allowing for various calculations and analyses to be performed. For example, sales revenue, quantity sold, or the number of transactions are all considered facts because they can be analyzed to derive insights into business performance.

This focus on measurable data distinguishes facts from descriptive attributes, which provide context to the numbers but do not aid in quantitative analysis. While historical records may contribute to the understanding of trends over time, they are not specifically defined as "facts." Operational records, which are real-time data generated during day-to-day operations, differ from the structured and aggregated form that facts take in a data warehouse setting. Therefore, the most accurate representation of "facts" is their role as statistical metrics about business processes.