What exactly is a data dump? A data dump includes a collection of the data and table structure from a database and typically is in the form of an array of SQL statements. A data dump is frequently used for backing up an entire database in case of data loss, so that its contents are recoverable in case of disaster. In this article we will look at what a data dump is, how it is used and how to create one.
A data dump or copy of your analytics information is crucial to your analytics package. Your analytics application needs to access this information to build and run your reports and dashboards. Without it your analytics would not be possible or relevant. A good way to use a data dump for a competitive intelligence report is to create an analytical dashboard that displays all of your organization’s data in a table or even an array of tables so you can quickly analyze the data.
The first step is to create an analytical report that you can send to clients, prospects, and customers. The format for the report should be clearly defined and easy for your clients to read. Most analytics systems allow for the customization of an analytical report in an Excel file. You can also choose the format for a data dump depending on whether you are sending it as an Excel workbook, email, HTML document, or Power Point presentation. You can also send it in any other format as long as the format is consistent with the rest of your analytics platform.
The second step is to define a time constraints to your dump. Time constraints generally are set in place because you want to create a report that is quick and to the point. Data is generally only useful if it can be understood within a certain amount of time. If you have a high level client with many contacts, you may need more data in order to generate a meaningful report. Data is typically not shared unless requested by the client or the requester (the person requesting the analytics reports).
The third step is to access the file from your analytics platform. Most systems allow access from either a web browser or your favorite mobile browser. In most cases, you will be prompted to provide a user name and password to access the file and then you can write the custom report.
The fourth step is to write the report itself. Your analytical report is usually written in a text editor. You can use a formula to create a custom formula, or you can write the report in your favorite spreadsheet application. Your spreadsheet application will allow you to enter additional descriptive columns and rows and enter your data in cells where you wish. You can also determine which cells to enter the data in based on the criteria you defined during the customization process.
The fifth step is to upload the report to your analytics platform. You will probably use your own reporting tool or a compatible open source platform to do this. Many commercial vendors such as SAP offer an easy way to upload the contents of your report to an analytics database. This is commonly referred to as a transactional dump.
The final step is to write the news release. You will want to include all of the above steps. However, it is important to note that you must publish the news release to appropriate news sources. A news release is a legally binding document that allows the recipient(s) to understand the competitive intelligence report and take actionable information from it.
