 - In managing databases, extract, transform, load (ETL) refers to three separate functions combined into a single programming tool. First, the extract function reads data from a specified source database and extracts a desired subset of data. Next, the transform function works with the acquired data - using rules or lookup tables, or creating combinations with other data - to convert it to the desired state. Finally, the load function is used to write the resulting data (either all of the subset or just the changes) to a target database, which may or may not previously exist.
ETL can be used to acquire a temporary subset of data for reports or other purposes, or a more permanent data set may be acquired for other purposes such as: the population of a data mart or data warehouse; conversion from one database type to another; and the migration of data from one database or platform to another.
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Getting started with ETL |
| To explore how ETL is used in the enterprise, here are some additional resources: |
| ETL tools defined: Although ETL tools are useful for moving data from one system into another system, our expert advises that they're not optimal for application-to-application communication. |
| ETL tools tutorial: This short, informative podcast discusses ETL software, including explanantion, common applications, and the advantages and disadvantages of different tools. |
| Extract, transform and load (ETL) tools transforming, study finds: The ETL tools market is transforming and growing to facilitate all kinds of data movement. Learn more about the trends and leaders in the ETL space in this article. |
| ETL tools and EDR tools: What's the difference?: Get expert insight into the differences between ETL tools and enterprise data replication (EDR) tools from Jill Dyché. |
| LAST UPDATED: |
23 Sep 2008
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