ETL Testing (Extract-Transform-Load Testing) is an important component of Big Data Testing. It is a data-centric testing mechanism largely associated with Data Warehouse or Data Migration projects.
The Extract-Transform-Load process involves the extraction of data from the databases, the transformation of data depending on the data warehouse structure, and the loading of data to the data warehouses. Hence, the objective of ETL Testing is to test the ETL process in order to ensure that data is effectively managed in the Data Warehouse.
Importance of ETL Testing
ETL Testing holds great significance in the process of data warehousing and data migration as it validates the efficient loading of data from the source system to the data warehouse. It provides a consolidated view of the data to the enterprises, thereby enabling them to push better business decisions.
Some of the notable ETL Testing benefits that Software Testing companies generally highlight while endorsing the testing method to underscore the importance of the testing method are:
Helps in Identifying Problems with the Source InformationWith ETL Testing, the Extract-Transform-Load process can be tested at an early stage when data is extracted from the source systems. Testers can identify the issues with the source information from the start, prior to the stacking of the data in the data repository. They can also spot the discrepancies or ambiguities in business rules that have been designed by an enterprise for the management of data transformation and integration.
Facilitates the Transfer of Bulk DataETL Testing is necessary for Data Warehousing projects especially when the transfer of bulk data is involved. A Digital Assurance company may particularly propose ETL Testing to large businesses as they frequently implement data integration and data migration processes that require the transfer of data from one location to another. ETL Testing ensures that the bulk data has been moved completely to the new destination in a reliable manner.
Prevents Loss of Data and Duplication of RecordsThe loss of data and the duplication of records can be prevented by performing ETL Testing as it is an effective method for the authentication and validation of information in data warehouse systems. ETL Testing makes sure that the exchange of information from independent sources to the central data warehouse takes place in compliance with the transformation rules and is consistent with the validity tests.
The ETL Testing method can eliminate possible human or system errors during the process of transfer of data from the extraction stage to the loading stage. Any human/system errors in the process can result in the transmission of inaccurate information across the enterprise. ETL Testing can eliminate the errors since it covers diverse strategies such as Data Completeness, Data Correctness, Data Integrity, Data Reconciliation, Data Transformation, Data Quality, and System Performance and Scalability.
In Conclusion:
ETL Testing is a critical testing procedure for Data Warehousing projects since it helps to build, control, and protect integrated or migrated data. The ETL Testing process validates, verifies, and qualifies data in order to avert data loss and duplicated records. ETL Testing is gaining importance in the present times since Agile, DevOps, Artificial Intelligence, and Cloud Technologies are fast emerging as the top trends in software development industry. Work with the best – connect with us.
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