As underlying semantics are established, a common semantic layer should be built, integrating customer-facing platforms such as business intelligence (BI), spreadsheets, and embedded analytics, enabling seamless modeling and deployment of data across the enterprise through prebuilt integrations and a robust API suite. This text also offers a range of developer tools that facilitate collaboration by enabling the creation of data models, management of caching and pre-aggregations, and enforcement of data entry controls.
The presence of a common semantic layer in an organization enables a uniform and standardized way of representing data, which has numerous benefits. It allows for better decision-making by providing accurate and consistent information across the enterprise. This, in turn, fosters collaboration and minimizes miscommunication among departments. The use of a shared terminology and definitions facilitates the integration of various systems and processes, resulting in enhanced efficiency.
When implemented correctly, a shared semantic layer enables information groups to operate under additional governance and management, ultimately delivering more value to end-users by reducing misunderstandings between teams. This ensures uniformity and accuracy across all information consumption points, thereby enhancing effectiveness. Regardless of whether the information is being leveraged by an individual, a dashboard, or something providing answers to questions, the information remains consistent.
The ease with which information groups are able to quickly disseminate data to both internal and external stakeholders simplifies their communication processes. Organizations can effortlessly substitute outdated metrics, conceptualize novel perspectives on knowledge, and seamlessly integrate fresh sources of unprocessed data. Additionally, they can implement governance insurance policies, along with entry-level management, clear definitions, and operational efficiencies.