Data-warehousing applications in manufacturing industry - Applicable solutions and challenges faced

Abstract

Data-warehousing is the computer application system that transforms a traditional intuitive decision making body into informed decision making organization. It provides key factors/facts across different chosen dimensions for ready consumption to the managers. The flexibility, provided by the data-warehouses for OLAP (On-line Analytical Processing) applications, offers a distinct edge to its practitioners over those who follow traditional way of browsing through conventional static reports for decision-making. However, the development and deployment of a proper data-warehousing solution in any industry is fraught with many challenges and more so in manufacturing industry in view of its complex processes and huge investments. Another important aspect is of identifying the right product to ensure that data-warehousing application can be built successfully for its effective use for on-line Analytical processing. This paper introduces the concept of data-warehousing, importance of it in a manufacturing industry, exploration of different types of solutions, and finally, the challenges faced in implementing the solution. © 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.