A method for demand-driven information requirements analysis in data warehousing projects

Information requirements analysis for data warehouse systems differs significantly from requirements analysis for conventional information systems. Existing data warehouse specific approaches are reviewed. A comprehensive methodology that supports the entire process of determining information requirements of data warehouse users, matching information requirements with actual information supply, evaluating and homogenizing resulting information requirements, establishing priorities for unsatisfied information requirements, and formally specifying the results as a basis for subsequent phases of the data warehouse development (sub)project is proposed. Its components as well as its overall design are based partially on literature review, but mainly on findings from a four year collaboration project with several large companies, mostly from the service sector. While an application of the entire methodology is still outstanding, some components have been successfully applied in actual data warehouse development projects of the participating companies.