IBIS 2009 Synopses |
Pre-Seminar Training |
| |
Xcelsius 2008 for Beginners
Intended Audience: The target audience for this course is the general business user who wants to create more dynamic and interactive presentations and reports.
Prerequisites: While not required for this course, experience with these products or technologies will be helpful:
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel
Synopsis: This course is designed to provide learners with an understanding of how to use Xcelsius to create interactive models of complex data that can be used for presentations and reports. By the end of the course, learners will understand how to use the Xcelsius suite of tools, determine which components best represent different types of information, and set up the relationships between these components. Students will have the opportunity to practice creating different types of models through a series of workshops.
Objectives: Learners will be able to create dashboards that allow users of all levels of expertise to understand complex data, perform what-if analysis in a simple-to-use format to spotlight problems and resolve issues, and create presentations and reports that steal the show.
Major Topics:
- Getting to Know Xcelsius
- Importing Excel Files
- Using Charts
- Using Single Value Components
- Using Selectors
- Applying Formatting
- Publishing Models
- Setting up Alerts
- Setting up Dynamic Visibility
- Adding Graphics and Animations
- Using Templates
- Setting Up Drill Down Functionality
- Using Tables
- Using Maps
- Using Other Components
|
Business Intelligence Report and Dashboard Publishing
Synopsis: An in-depth tour of the latest InfoBurst 2009 product that demonstrates how to deliver reports and dashboards to your users.
|
Universe Design in a Day
Intended Audience: Personnel requiring an introduction on how to design, create, maintain, and distribute a universe in the BusinessObjects / WebIntelligence environment.
Prerequisites: Understanding of relational database concepts and client /
server concepts.
Synopsis: The essentials of designing and developing universes in
BusinessObjects.
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to create a universe in the Designer module, understand connectivity issues, understand design issues involved in the semantic layer, resolve relational database issues relating to universe creation, and distribute a universe to users.
Major Topics:
- The Universe Structure and Development Process
- Role of the Repository
- Connectivity / Parameters
- Classes and Objects
- Conditions
- Hierarchies
- Joins / Resolving Loops
- Linking Universes
- Universe Maintenance and Distribution
|
Web Intelligence for Beginners
Intended Audience: Anyone interested in learning Web Intelligence for the first time.
Prerequisites: None.
Synopsis: An introduction to the Web Intelligence query and analysis business intelligence tool.
Objectives: Upon completion, the student should be able to use the essential features and functions of Web Intelligence.
Major Topics:
- Understanding the BusinessObjects Environment
- Navigating InfoView
- Accessing Data
- Basic Queries
- Filtering Data at the Query Level
- Report Formatting
- Table Types
- Breaks
- Sections
- Properties Panel
- Graphing
- Formula Editor
|
TRACK 1: Web Intelligence 3.1 Advanced Workshops
Intended Audience: This Workshop is intended for individuals that are already working with Web Intelligence 6.x, XI R2, or XI 3.x and want to learn more advanced techniques used by InfoSol Consultants to solve real world issues.
Prerequisites:
- At least 3 to 6 months experience with Web Intelligence
- If no experience then must have attended Web Intelligence for Novices or other Web Intelligence training
Synopsis: This track will be a hands on workshop which will allow attendees to experience real life Web Intelligence problems. Attendees will be given examples of issues that InfoSol Consultants have been faced with and then will work through the solutions that were developed to resolve the issues.
Objectives: At the end of this workshop, the student will have a more thorough understanding of the capabilities of Web Intelligence and will be able to apply their new knowledge to solve various reporting problems.
Major Topics:
- Context
- Combined and Sub-queries and using them together
- Complex Formulas
- Advanced Report Formatting
- Ways the Universe Designer can Assist a Webi Developer
- Ways the Administrator can Assist a Webi Developer
Module 1: Web Intelligence 3.1 Advanced Workshops
Major Topics:
- Combined and Sub-queries and using them together
- Retrieving Blanks or Nulls without Outer Joins
- Passing a Constant to a Document
- Prompting for Section Breaks
- Prompting for Block Type
Module 2: Web Intelligence 3.1 Advanced Workshops
Major Topics:
- Advanced Context
- Advanced Report Formatting
- Limiting the Number of Rows on a Page
- Charts with Alerters
- Using Booleans to Group Data
- Breaking a Tie of Ranking
Module 3: Web Intelligence 3.1 Advanced Workshops
Major Topics:
- Ways the Universe Designer can Assist a Webi Developer
- Ways the Administrator can Assist a Webi Developer
- Views
- Derived Tables
- Pre-defined Conditions
- Dummy Objects
|
TRACK 2: BusinessObjects 3.1 Workshop
Module 1A: Web Intelligence Differences XIR2 to 3.1
Intended Audience: Existing Web Intelligence 6.x or XI users or anyone interested in learning about the latest Web Intelligence 3.1 features.
Prerequisites:
- Basic report design knowledge of Web Intelligence 6.x or XI.
Synopsis: Provide the student with a comprehensive review and demonstration of the new features and enhancements of Web Intelligence 3.1.
Objectives: Upon completion of this module, the student should be familiar with the new features and functions of Web Intelligence XI 3.1 and how they can be utilized in the business environment.
Major Topics:
- Web Intelligence Rich Client
- Usability Enhancements
- Multilingual Support
- Smart Measures
- Optional Prompts
- Formula Language
- Data Tracking
- Document Linking (Hyper Linking)
- New Report Conversion Tool Features (Convert Deski to Webi)
- And Much More…
Module 1B: BI Widgets and Polestar
Intended Audience: BusinessObjects Enterprise System Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture and Security.
Synopsis:
BI Widgets and Polestar are new add-ons available in XI 3.0. Polestar was actually available in XI R2, but now it is integrated into the security and architecture of XI.
BI Widgets brings your BI content to the desktop for direct and immediate consumption. BI widgets can exist as dashboard-like displays created from Xcelsius or as RSS feeds, or even within your InfoView portal. BI Widgets provides access to your Webi reports, which are then easily converted to widgets using drag-and-drop operations. One client uses BI Widgets to display hourly sales at each store during its crucial Christmas season!
Polestar 3.1, newly integrated, is now as easy to install as it is to use. Designed primarily as an end user analysis tool, Polestar presents data for intuitive drilling through predetermined data. This presentation will also introduce an innovative integration of Xcelsius with Polestar
Objectives: Provide the student with an understanding of how to create BI Widgets and setup and deploy Polestar for end user consumption.
Major Topics:
- Creating a BI Widget from an Xcelsius Dashboard
- Using BI Widget Explorer
- Search and Scores
- Search History
- Creating an RSS Feed
- BI Widget Security and Preferences
- Security Options
- Automatic Login
- Setting Preferences
- Setup and Deployment of Polestar 3.1
- Creating an Information Space
- Security of Information Spaces
- What’s New – Prompts and Exports and Facet Management
- Using Polestar
- Introduction to Polestar from Xcelsius!
Module 2A: Changes in Security and Version Control
Intended Audience: BusinessObjects Enterprise System Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI R2 Architecture and Security.
Synopsis:
Changes in Security - Learn how radical modifications in the security model improve your control over the entire system.
Version Control - A discussion of version control theory as it applies to the BI environment.
Objectives: Provide the student with a comprehensive review of the new Security and Version Control Features of BusinessObjects Enterprise 3.0/3.1.
Major Topics:
- What’s New in Security?
- New CMC Interface
- Multi-Forested Active Directory
- Custom Access Levels
- Selective Enforcement of Rights
- Scope of Rights
- Permissions Explorer
- Security Query
- Best Practices, Tips and Tricks
- Version Control
- LifeCycle Manager (LCM)
- What is LifeCycle Management?
- LCM Features
- System Requirements & Installation
- Using LCM
- Auditing in LCM
Module 2B: Federation
Intended Audience: BusinessObjects Enterprise System Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture and Security.
Synopsis: Federation is a new feature available on the CMC in BusinessObjects Enterprise. Federation uses Web services to send objects and their changes between the origin and destination sites. Federation-specific web services are automatically installed and deployed in the BusinessObjects Enterprise XI 3.0 installation. It is an important cross-site replication tool for working with multiple BusinessObjects Enterprise deployments in a global environment.
Objectives: Provide the student with an understanding of the options and workings of the Federation service in BusinessObjects Enterprise 3.0/3.1.
Major Topics:
- When is Federation Useful?
- How does Federation Work?
- Introduction to Web Services
- One-way Replication
- Two-way Replication
- Maintaining a Replication List
- Scheduling Replications
- Real World Example
- Chicago to Regional Replication
Module 2C: Life Cycle Manager with Version Manager
Intended Audience: IT Managers, BI Managers, System Administrators, BI Developers.
Prerequisites:
- Basic knowledge of managing and deploying objects in the BusinessObjects XI R2 Architecture.
Synopsis: Study and comparison between these solutions available today for version control in BusinessObjects.
Objectives: Provide the student with a comprehensive overview of the Version Control Features of these Version Control solutions available for BusinessObjects Enterprise 3.0/3.1.
Major Topics:
- LifeCycle Manager
- Overview of LifeCycle Manager
- LifeCycle Manager Features
- LifeCycle Manager Demonstration
- Version Manager
- Overview of Version Manager
- Version Manager Features
- Version Manager Demonstration
- Product Comparison
- Tips, Tricks and Best Practices
Module 3A: SDK
Intended Audience: Developers and Project Managers.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture and Reporting.
Synopsis: An overview of the programming options available in BusinessObjects Enterprise XI. The focus is on new features in 3.0 and 3.1.
Objectives: Upon completion of this presentation the student will understand the many options that exist to build applications that integrate with BusinessObjects.
Major Topics:
- What is the SDK?
- The Different Environments
- Java or .NET?
- Recommended Approaches
- New Features in 3.x
- Samples
Module 3B: BI Mobile
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators, IT Managers, BI Managers.
Prerequisites:
- Basic knowledge of the BusinessObjects Toolset.
Synopsis: See how BI Mobile can help your Smartphone users stay in touch with the Enterprise’s BI.
Objectives: Provide the student with a comprehensive understanding of BusinessObjects Mobile 3.0/3.1.
Major Topics:
- Features
- Architecture
- Installation Overview
- Deployment
- Limitations
|
TRACK 3: Crystal Reports Bootcamp
Modules 1A, 1B, 1C: Crystal Reports Basics: Building Reports, Formatting Essentials,
Sorting & Grouping, and the Section Expert
Intended Audience: This course is designed for the novice Crystal Reports developer or someone who is interested in knowing what Crystal can do for them. This is a hands-on course taking the student from the basics of report building and design through to semi-complex formula building.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
Synopsis: We will be covering the basic usage of Crystal 2008 although most features displayed and referenced will be backwards compatible to around version 8.5. Specific functions not available in previous versions will be identified if needed.
Objectives: After the completion of this module the student will know how to build a basic report using Crystal reports and apply basic selection filters, groups sorting and summary values. Navigation around the tool and basic best practices will also be discussed.
Major Topics:
- New Report Wizard
- Database expert
- Design vs. Preview tabs
- Saving, Printing, Exporting reports
- Reducing Data on the Report
- Select Expert
- Limitations of the Select Expert
- Formatting Essentials
- Section Expert
- Format Options
- Sorting and Grouping
- Sort Wizard
- Group Wizard
- Grouping with Specified Group
Modules 2A, 2B, 2C: Crystal Reports Basics: Basic Formulas, Advanced Formulas, and Applied Formulas
Intended Audience: This course is designed for the novice Crystal Reports developer or someone who is interested in knowing what Crystal can do for them. This is a hands-on course which continues from Modules 1 and continues building basic reports by creating and applying formulas to display data differently from what is in the database and by changing the formatting of the report.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Module 1: Crystal Reports – Basics or understanding of the major topics
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
Synopsis: We will be covering the Formula Workshop of Crystal 2008 although most features displayed and referenced will be backwards compatible to around version 8.5. Specific functions not available in previous versions will be identified if needed.
Objectives: After the completion of this module the student will know how to build and apply formulas to a Crystal report. Usage of formulas will include creating and using parameters, changing the way data is calculated and how it is displayed.
Major Topics:
- Basic Formulas
- Navigating the Formula Workshop
- Basic Types of Formulas
- Boolean
- If-Then-Else Logic
- Basic Formulas – Parameters
- Creating and using Parameters for Record Selection
- Creating and using Parameters for Formatting Purposes
- List of Values Options
- Cascading Dynamic List of Values
- Basic Formulas – Conditional Formatting
- Highlighting Expert
- Manual Conditional Formatting
MODULE 3: Crystal Reports: Advanced Features
Intended Audience: This course is designed for the novice Crystal Reports developer or someone who is interested in knowing what Crystal can do for them. This is a hands-on course which is focused on displaying data in different ways than a simple report. A focus on displaying summary information and breaking up the data into logical groups is key in this module.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Module 1 and 2: Crystal Reports – Basics or understanding of the major topics
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
Synopsis: We will be covering the Crosstab Expert, the Chart Expert and other semi-complex features of Crystal 2008 although most features displayed and referenced will be backwards compatible to around version 8.5. Specific functions not available in previous versions will be identified if needed.
Objectives: After the completion of this module the student will know how to take a basic Crystal report and add rich content, which will allow for better understanding of the data by the consumer.
Major Topics:
- Advanced usage of Crystal Reports
- Displaying Summary Information
- Cross tabs
- Charts
- Advanced usage of Crystal Reports
- Running total expert
- Hierarchical Sorting
- Alerters
|
TRACK 4: Crystal Reports Advanced for Crystal Heads
Module 1A: SDK Overview
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator interested in learning more about the available functions in the Crystal SDK.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports
- Limited programming experience in Visual Basic or .NET
Synopsis: This module will be an overview of the Crystal SDK, what object models are available and what SDK is right for your environment. It will also cover the pros and cons of using certain features in the Crystal SDK through example code.
Objectives: After attending this module, the student will have a better understanding of the various SDK’s available and how they apply to their environment as well as what features are available.
Major Topics:
- Which SDK is Right for you?
- Why use the Crystal SDK?
- What is the Report Viewer Control and when and where to use it
- Simple Example: Displaying a Report
- Which Object Model to use
- Properties of each Object Model
- Choose the Object Model that Best Fits what you want to do
- To use Embedded or Non-embedded Reports – Pros and Cons
- What is an Embedded Report?
- What is a Non-embedded Report?
- Regular vs. Cached Reports
- What is Binding to a Report and what is the Best Binding Scenario?
Module 1B: Embedded Xcelsius
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator interested in knowing how Crystal Reports 2008 interacts with an Xcelsius dashboard.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports
Synopsis: This module will cover not only putting a dashboard into a Crystal Report, but how to best develop a simple dashboard in order to interact with it more effectively in a Crystal Report.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will be able to embed or link an Xcelsius dashboard in a Crystal report and interact with the object and the data within a Crystal Report.
Major Topics:
- Why Embed an Xcelsius Dashboard in a Crystal Report?
- Designing an Xcelsius Dashboard to be Embedded in Crystal
- Embed or Link, Which is Best?
- How to Embed and Interact with an Xcelsius Dashboard
- Flash Data Expert
- Formatting Flash
Module 1C: Troubleshooting Crystal Errors
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator interested in knowing the tools available and best practices for troubleshooting Crystal Reports errors, as well as errors that occur after publishing a report to Enterprise.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports
Synopsis: In this module the student will learn about the tools and helpful steps used to help troubleshoot errors within the Crystal application, as well as in Enterprise, and how to avoid those errors in the future.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will have a better understanding of some common error messages received both in the Crystal application and Enterprise and how to go about troubleshooting and resolving them.
Major Topics:
- Tools to use to Help Troubleshoot
- Common Report Errors
- Steps to Solving Common Report Errors
- Avoiding Report Errors
Module 2A: Publishing Crystal Reports: Best Practices
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator interested in knowing best practices when it comes to publishing Crystal Reports.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports
Synopsis: This module will cover best practices specifically for the publication of a Crystal Report into the Enterprise environment. The topics covered will include: Creating a design template and saving that for others to easily access, How to make a Crystal Report look good on the web, Locking your design, Keeping track of versions, and how to test your report before publishing it, and Enterprise publishing best practices.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will know what to keep in mind when publishing a report to Enterprise or implementing Crystal Report change control.
Major Topics:
- Creating and Using Templates
- Report Design – Back to Basics!
- Locking Design – Save Lock New 2008 Functionality!!
- Version Control
- Publishing to Enterprise
Module 2B: More Custom Functions
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator interested in knowing when to use custom functions, how to get help on creating custom functions, and how to import user function libraries (UFLs).
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports using advanced formulas
Synopsis: In this module the student will learn what scenarios are best to use custom functions, how and where to get help on creating them, the most commonly used custom functions and what are user function libraries.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will learn when is the best time to use a custom function versus just a formula, how and where to get help creating one, some examples of common custom functions, and what are user function libraries and how to use them in reports.
Major Topics:
- When to use Custom Functions
- How and where to get Help on Creating Custom Functions
- Most Commonly used Custom Functions – Examples
- What are UFL’s (User Function Libraries)?
- Where to get UFL’s
- Importing UFL’s
Module 2C: Crystal Reports and Universes Pros and Cons
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator interested in knowing when and why to use a universe as a report data source and the pros and cons that are associated with that.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports using advanced formulas
Synopsis: In this module the student will learn about the pros and cons of creating a Crystal Report against a universe, how Crystal handles context in a universe, how Crystal handles changing universes in a report, how to update objects in the universe and the report and how row and column level security apply.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will know how to connect a Crystal Report to a universe how Crystal handles context, changing universes, updating objects in the universe and row and column level security.
Major Topics:
- Overall Pros and Cons
- Universe Contexts
- Changing Universes
- Updating Objects in the Universe and in the Report
- Row and Column Level Security
Module 3A: Advantages of using Crosstabs
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports using advanced formulas
Synopsis: In this module the student will learn the different scenarios in which to use a crosstab, how to access certain pieces of data in a crosstab to write formulas, and tips and tricks to formatting crosstabs.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will have a better idea of when to use crosstabs, how to access the data within a crosstab to either format the crosstab or to use in a formula somewhere else in the report, and how to format a crosstab so it fits on the page and does not look like a crosstab.
Major Topics:
- Why and when would you use Crosstabs?
- How to Access Data in Crosstabs?
- Formulas and Crosstabs (New Functions in Crystal 2008!)
- Formatting Crosstabs – Tricks!
Module 3B: Parameters Tips and Tricks
Intended Audience: For the more advanced Crystal Report Developer or Administrator.
Prerequisites:
- Some knowledge of basic database conventions and uses (tables, fields etc.)
- Knowledge of Windows conventions
- Basic computer skills
- Experience creating more advanced Crystal Reports using advanced formulas
Synopsis: In this module we will dive deeper into the construction of more complex parameters. We will learn to create a parameter that has the option of selecting ALL values, creating optional prompts, why it is good to filter parameters and how we can make our parameters load faster.
Objectives: After attending this module the student will know how to make a parameter with the ALL option, why you would want to use a optional parameter, why you should filter parameters, and how and when to make parameters faster.
Major Topics:
- Creating a Parameter (List of Values) Object with the Option to Select ALL Values – Must be Done in Business View Manager First!!!
- Optional Parameters / LOV’s – Why use?
- Filtering Parameters / LOV’s – Why?
- Making Parameters / LOV’s Faster!
|
TRACK 5: Xcelsius 2008 Master Bootcamp
Intended Audience: This hands-on Workshop is intended for individuals that are already working with Xcelsius 4.5 or 2008 and want to learn more advanced techniques, and data connectivity options, used by InfoSol Consultants in dashboards developed for other customers.
Prerequisites:
- At least 3 to 6 months experience with Xcelsius 4.5 or 2008.
Synopsis: This track will be a “heads down” bootcamp. Users will build an end-to-end connected dashboard in 2.5 days, and will include Tips and Tricks.
Objectives: Upon the completion of this workshop, the student should be able to create advanced, connected dashboards using Xcelsius 2008.
Major Topics:
- Designing the Data Model Best Practices
- Advanced Techniques
- Drill Down Capability
- What-if Analysis
- Deployment
- Data Connectivity Options
- How to Handle Xcelsius Dashboard Projects
MODULE 1: Advanced Techniques
Major Topics:
- Designing the Data Model Best Practices
- Dynamic Visibility
- Working with Pre-Built and Customized Maps
- Customized Buttons
- Excel Tips and Tricks
- Drilling Down with Xcelsius
- What-if Analysis
- Creating Desktop Widgets from Xcelsius Dashboards (Adobe AIR)
- Crystal 2008 and Xcelsius - Embed a Dashboard in a Crystal Report
MODULE 2: Making my Dashboard Dynamic: Data Connectivity
Major Topics:
- Explore Data Connectivity Options - XML Data, QaaWS, Web Services, Live Office, etc.
- InfoBurst XDS as a Solution for Distributing and Refreshing Dashboards
- XWIIS – How to Easily Load Webi Report Data into Xcelsius
- Live Data Refresh: Do I really need this? What can I do in my database to optimize my Dashboard?
MODULE 3: The Xcelsius Dashboard Project
Major Topics:
- Is Xcelsius the correct tool for this project?
- Choosing the Best Refreshing Method for my Dashboard
- Design and Deployment Best Practices
- Export Formats and Distribution of your Dashboard
- Xcelsius and BusinessObjects Enterprise Integration
- Import Customized Xcelsius Components
- Grand Finale Workshop – An opportunity to put in practice everything you have learned in this workshop, plus you will have the assistance of your instructors.
|
TRACK 6: Xcelsius 2008 Enterprise Deployment Workshop
Intended Audience: This track is designed for individuals who have had some experience working with Xcelsius 4.5 or 2008, designing and implementing dashboarding solutions, and who wish to consider the options for solution deployment inside and outside of their organization.
Prerequisites:
- At least 3 to 6 months experience with Xcelsius
Synopsis: This track is primarily for the examination and discussion of the various “technical challenges” that must be overcome when designing and deploying dashboard solutions involving some element of dynamic data. The instructors will be demonstrating software tools available from BusinessObjects (SAP), Antivia, and InfoSol. Individuals should be prepared to discuss their own company dashboarding requirements with the instructors and the rest of the group.
Objectives: Upon completion of the track, the student should be fully aware of the options available for dashboard deployment with a view to implementing the best solution within their company environment.
Major Topics:
- Xcelsius Data Connectors
- BusinessObjects Query as a Web Service (QaaWS)
- BusinessObjects Live Office
- Antivia Web Intelligence Integration Suite (XWIS)
- InfoSol’s InfoBurst XDS and XDM Dashboard Hosting
- Dashboard Data Caching and Retrieval Techniques
- Dashboard Security
Module 1A: Overview and Considerations
Major Topics:
- An Overview of Xcelsius Functionality
- Static and Dynamic Data Dashboards
- An Introduction to the Xcelsius Data Connectors
- Deploying Dashboards Inside the Organization
- Deploying Dashboards Outside the Organization
- Ongoing Management of Dashboard Data
- Performance Considerations
- Authentication and Security Considerations
Module 1B: QaaWS and Live Office
Major Topics:
- A Demonstration of these Two BusinessObjects Offerings
- A Review of the Pros and Cons of each Approach
- Implementation Considerations
- Software Licensing
Module 1C: Xcelsius Web Intelligence Integration Suite
Major Topics:
- A Demonstration of XWIS on the Latest BOE Software Platform
- A Review of the Functionality Provided by this New Product
- Implementation Considerations
- Software Licensing
Module 2A: InfoBurst XDS and XDM Dashboard Data Hosting
Major Topics:
- A Demonstration of an XDS Dashboard Data Connector using a BI Report as the Datasource
- A Demonstration of an XDM Dashboard Data Connector using a SQL Database Query as the Datasource
- A Review of the Functionality of the XDS / XDM Approach
- Implementation Considerations
- Software Licensing
Module 2B: Dashboard Delivery and "Bursting"
Major Topics:
- Distributing Dashboards (SWFs) using InfoBurst Publishing
- A Review of the Distribution Options for Connected Dashboards
- The “Dashboard Package” for Distribution Outside the Company
- What is “Bursting” in the Context of a Dashboard
Module 2C: InfoBurst Data Caching and "Intelligent Cache"
Major Topics:
- The Implementation of Data Caching in InfoBurst
- A Comparison between Data Cache and Realtime Data Access
- The Impact of Data Caching on the Dashboard Design Process
- Using Drill-down with the Data Cache (“Intelligent Cache”)
- Data Archiving and other Features Specific to the Cache
Module 3A: Security and Authentication
Major Topics:
- The need for Dashboard Security
- Dashboard Security Options Currently Available
- Consideration of Intranet and External Security Issues
- A Review of the “Get_Credentials” Feature of InfoBurst XDS / XDM
- Looking for a One-stop Solution
Module 3B: Open Discussion
Major Topics:
- A Review of the Information Covered During the Track
- Considerations of the Merits of the Various Options
- A Review of the Students Implementation Requirements
- Looking to the Future – New Ideas, New Software Products
|
TRACK 7: Building and Deploying Effective BI Solutions
MODULE 1A: What is Business Intelligence?
Intended Audience: Targeted toward business executives, managers and key personnel who wish to learn about Business Intelligence.
Prerequisites: None.
Synopsis: A dynamic and interactive seminar on why Business Intelligence is a critical and essential component in so many businesses today and how to plan, build and deploy effective Business Intelligence solutions and why.
Major Topics:
- Brief History of Evolution of Business Intelligence
- Current Examples of Usage of Business Intelligence in various industries today
- The Basic Tools of Business Intelligence
The Data Warehouse Decision
Synopsis: Overview of the different types of Data Warehouse, and the criteria for selecting which type is best for which usage.
Major Topics:
- What is a Data Warehouse and a Data Mart
- Production Transaction Systems vs. Reporting/Query Systems
- Building Blocks of Data Warehouses
- Operational Data Stores
- Examples of Data Warehouses (Good and Bad) in Business Today
MODULE 1B: Business Considerations and Sponsorship
Synopsis: A look at the business considerations and the executive sponsorship required for a successful Business Intelligence project.
Major Topics:
- Identifying and Meeting the Business Need
- Executive Sponsorship and Commitment
- Selecting the Team
MODULE 1C: The Data Issue
Synopsis: Your BI deployment will be as good as the data used in the process. Some of the common data quality issues and the impact they have on the whole organization will be discussed.
Major Topics:
- Data Quality
- Types of Data
- Data Sources
- ETL
MODULE 2A: The Data Model
Synopsis: The Data Model is the blueprint of the data repository that will drive your Business Intelligence solution. Learn why it is so critical to the success of any BI solution.
Major Topics:
- Design of the Data Model and the Overall Solution
- The Data Modeling Exercise
- The Data Architect
Choosing Your Tools
Synopsis: Selection of tools is one of the most important part of creating a BI deployment. You will learn about various tools which are used throughout the lifecycle of the BI deployment and what to watch out for when making a tool selection decision. You will also hear about who from the organization should be part of the decision making team.
Major Topics:
- The Choice of Tools
- Query and Reporting Tools
- Dashboard and Data Visualization Tools
- Predictive Analysis and Data Mining
- Data Quality Tools
- Data Loading and Transformation Tools
- Data Design Tools
- Report Distribution and Publishing Tools
MODULE 2B: Types of Users
Synopsis: There are many different types of users in any business and it is important to understand their unique needs and requirements. This topic explores the different groups from a Business Intelligence perspective.
Major Topics:
- Report and Information Consumers
- Query and Analysis Standard Users
- Query and Analysis Power Users
- Report/Dashboard Creators and Data Stewards
- Business Intelligence and Data Administrators
MODULE 2C: User Interfaces
Synopsis: You can have the state-of-the-art database and tools for your BI backend, but the key is to have an easy-to-use and attractive user interface. You will learn the key points to watch for when creating/selecting the user interface.
Major Topics:
- Ergonomics vs. Functionality
- Dashboards
- Matching the Interface to the User
MODULE 3A: The Delivery Dilemma: Push vs. Pull
Synopsis: Do you have users who are proactive and would like to get the reports from the central location when they need? Or do you have users who would rather have you deliver the reports to them in the format they need? We will discuss different ways and formats in which information can be delivered on a regular basis, on demand, or based on certain events that have happened.
Major Topics:
- Standardized Reports vs. Ad-hoc Reports
- Static Data vs. Real-time Refresh
- Intelligent Bursting
- Matching the Report Delivery to the Need
- Dashboard Distribution
- Scheduling and Performance Considerations
MODULE 3B: How to Sell BI to your Manager, Deliver Results and Measure Ongoing ROI
Synopsis: While the initial success of a Business Intelligence project may be measured by the initial results delivered, it usually takes many months to achieve a full return on investment, and so it is important to continually monitor and measure the on-going results. This session looks at ways to achieve this.
Major Topics:
- Defining Completion and Success Criteria
- Measuring Project Progress
- Monitoring Results after Delivery of the Solution
- Competency Center and Best Practices
- Case Studies
|
TRACK 8: BusinessObjects XI 3.1 Administration
Module 1A: Tomcat for the BOE Administrator
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI R2 Architecture.
Synopsis: How to manage Tomcat to support BusinessObjects Enterprise in your deployment.
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to adjust Tomcat settings for performance, ease of administration and overall optimization.
Major Topics:
- What is Tomcat?
- Why Tomcat?
- Tomcat Architecture
- Suggested Configurations
- Using Tomcat as a Web Server
- A Note on Apache
Module 1B: Security for BOE and Changes in 3.x
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators, IT Managers, BI Managers.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture.
Synopsis: Description of the XI R2 and XI 3.x security models and how the new one is more effective.
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, the student will understand how to plan for the new features of the XI 3.x security model.
Major Topics:
- BO5 or BO6 Security Concepts
- BOE XI R2 Security Concepts
- BOE XI 3.0 Security: What’s New?
- Migration and Implementation: Challenges
- 360View: An Add-on for XI Security Administration
Module 1C: Auditing and Optimization
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators, IT Managers, BI Managers.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture.
Synopsis: Description of the Auditing options available, and how they can lead to Optimization.
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, the student will understand the many options that exist to tune BusinessObjects and integrate it in one’s environment.
Major Topics:
- The Architecture
- The Auditing Tools
- Third Party Monitoring Tools
- What they Tell you
- How to Reconfigure your System Based on the Findings
Module 2A: InfoView Configuration and Customization
Intended Audience:IT Managers, BI Managers, Systems Administrators,
BI Developers.
Prerequisites:
- Basic knowledge of BusinessObjects XI InfoView.
Synopsis: How to change the look and feel of InfoView with minimal effort.
Objectives:Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to configure the tool using the standard files provided by BusinessObjects.
The student will also have a basic knowledge of the architecture of the InfoView initial pages and understand how to perform basic customization.
Major Topics:
- BOE Configuration Files under Tomcat and other Java Servers
- BOE Configuration Files under IIS
- Notes when PM is Installed
- InfoView Code Architectures
- Customization Best Practices
- Tips and Tricks
Module 2B: Extension Points for Webi 3.x
Intended Audience: BI Administrators, BI Developers.
Prerequisites:
- Basic knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture.
- Working knowledge of Web Intelligence.
Synopsis:A practical approach of the new customization feature of Web Intelligence.
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to create Extension Points for Web Intelligence and extend the functionality of the tool.
Major Topics:
- What are Extension Points?
- Features and limitations
Module 2C: Troubleshooting Methods and Tips
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture.
Synopsis: Suggestions on how to troubleshoot your BusinessObjects Enterprise system.
Objectives: Provide the attendee with a systematic approach plan against problems in the Infrastructure.
Major Topics:
- What is a Problem?
- Defining the SLA
- Document the Issue
- Track the Fault
- When is the Problem Fixed?
- BOE Logs, Audit, other Sources of Information
- Different Sources between UNIX and Windows
Module 3A: Backup Strategies for BOE
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI Architecture.
Synopsis: Suggestions on how to implement a viable and reliable backup strategy for your BOE deployment.
Objectives: Provide the attendee with a comprehensive approach to the problems and solutions for BOE disaster recovery and incremental retrieval.
Major Topics:
- What is the Need?
- Where is the Data?
- Tools Available
- Strategy
- How can we go Beyond the Essentials?
Module 3B: Upgrading to XI 3.x: Case Studies and Panel Discussion
Intended Audience: Systems Administrators.
Prerequisites:
- Working knowledge of BusinessObjects XI 3.x Architecture.
Synopsis:Opportunity to listen and ask questions regarding “real-life” experiences with upgrading both the BO Edge and BO Enterprise Systems
to XI 3.x.
Objectives: Upon completion, the participant will have been led through a couple of real life case studies, they will learn about the challenges, the lessons learned and any recommendations for ensuring success. The session will also include a panel discussion, hosted by InfoSol, where participants can ask questions and discuss specific challenges being faced by the representatives from the case studies.
Major Topics:
- Customer Case Studies
- Panel Discussion Focusing on Specific Topics around XI 3.x Upgrades, Configurations, and other Challenges
|
TRACK 9: Data Integrator Bootcamp
Intended Audience: The target audience for this course are developers and administrators responsible for implementing the Extraction, Transformation and Loading of data in batch jobs.
Prerequisites:
- Knowledge and experience with normalized Relational Database, Data Warehousing and ETL concepts.
Synopsis: A hands-on workshop on Data Integrator to show you how to create, maintain and use this comprehensive Extraction, Transformation and Load (ETL) toolset from a practical and real world perspective. The workshop will include exercises and examples of best practices that InfoSol Consultants have been faced with on various deployments.
Objectives: At the end of this workshop, you will have a more thorough understanding of creating Data Integrator jobs, workflows and scripts, along with deploying them in a production environment. Attendees will be creating a real-world, mini-deployment of a data mart with fact and dimension tables. The jobs will be created to load the Data Mart both initially and incrementally.
Module 1A: Concepts and Introduction
Major Topics:
- Review the concepts for data warehouse, role of ETL (Extract, Transform and load) in DW and how Data Integrator fits in the big picture.
- Describe BusinessObjects Data Integrator Architecture.
- Understand Data Integrator Object types and their hierarchy.
- Understand the User/Developer Interface.
Module 1B: Creating Data Integrator Jobs
Major Topics:
- Define source and target metadata to import into your ETL projects.
- Create datastore definitions, import metadata, define file formats.
- Create, validate, trace and debug batch jobs.
- Creating Projects, Jobs, Workflows, Dataflows. Understand the Query transform.
- Understand job execution options.
Module 1C: Advanced Functions
Major Topics:
- Use nested data, built-in Transforms and Functions to support data flow movement requirements.
- Use global variables and Data Integrator Scripting Language. Creating global variables. Using global variables in scripts. Scripting a custom function.
- Capture changes in data and handle errors and exceptions. Use source-base and target-based change data capture. Use the Table_Comparison.
- History_Preserving and Key_Generation transforms.
Module 2A: Surrogate and Foreign Keys
Major Topics:
- Create an initial job to populate the Dimensions and Fact table using some of the transforms discussed earlier.
- Create Surrogate keys and how to set the dependency of the primary and foreign key relationship.
Module 2B: Creating Load Scripts
Major Topics:
- Create an incremental job to populate the Dimensions and Fact table using some of the transforms discussed earlier.
- Create the scripts to check for the first time load or incremental load.
Module 2C: Error Handling and Data Recovery
Major Topics:
- Handling Errors and Auditing.
- Use data recovery strategies, create recoverable workflows, use try / catch blocks, use auditing in data flows.
Module 3A: Administration and Scheduling
Major Topics:
- Using the Administrator. Managing repositories, user roles, server groups.
- Scheduling and executing jobs.
Module 3B: Profiling Data and Managing Metadata
Major Topics:
- Profile data. Setting up a Data Profiler repository. Configuring, submitting profiling tasks.
- Manage metadata. Accessing Data Integrator Metadata Reports. Viewing Impact and Lineage Analysis.
|
|
| |