In the context of data warehousing, what is a star schema?

In the context of data warehousing, what is a star schema?

• A. A model that only stores transactional data
• B. A structured format for organizing visible systems
• C. A data structure for facilitating query and analysis
• D. A diagram for operational processes only

Answer: (C)

A star schema is a data structure designed to enhance the efficiency of querying and analyzing large volumes of data, particularly in a data warehousing context. It is characterized by a central fact table that contains quantitative data for analysis, surrounded by dimension tables that provide descriptive attributes related to the facts. This design allows for simplified and faster query execution since it features a straightforward join structure between the fact and dimension tables, making it intuitive for users to retrieve and analyze data effectively. In contrast, models that focus solely on transactional data do not encapsulate the analytical perspective that a star schema provides. Similarly, while organizing systems and operational processes are essential in data management, they do not reflect the analytical purpose that a star schema serves, which is chiefly aimed at supporting complex queries and data analysis.

A star schema is a data structure designed to enhance the efficiency of querying and analyzing large volumes of data, particularly in a data warehousing context. It is characterized by a central fact table that contains quantitative data for analysis, surrounded by dimension tables that provide descriptive attributes related to the facts. This design allows for simplified and faster query execution since it features a straightforward join structure between the fact and dimension tables, making it intuitive for users to retrieve and analyze data effectively.

In contrast, models that focus solely on transactional data do not encapsulate the analytical perspective that a star schema provides. Similarly, while organizing systems and operational processes are essential in data management, they do not reflect the analytical purpose that a star schema serves, which is chiefly aimed at supporting complex queries and data analysis.