Business Intelligence: FAQ
Last Updated: December 3, 2021 2:45:29 PM PST
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How do I get started?
Where you start in data and analytics depends on what type of user you are.
- Consumers run reports to view and analyze data, but they do not frequently use Business Intelligence (BI) supported tools.
- Developers spend much of their time working with data and using Business Intelligence and Analytics supported tools. They have extensive knowledge of the data source and a working knowledge of tables and joins.
How do I get access to the data?
Viewing each data hub requires a separate request for access. The access approval process varies according to the data stewards and governing bodies.
- See the list of available types of data.
- Identify the data source(s) you want to use.
- Submit a request for access to each type of data using the form(s) or email contact(s) listed.
The IT Services Business Intelligence and Analytics Team can help with questions about the procedures for your source(s).
How do I get a license for BI tools?
Cognos
UC San Diego has an enterprise license for Cognos. No further action is needed to obtain a license for your project.
Tableau
Consumers: Viewing and interacting with pre-created Tableau reports does not require a license.
Developers: Departments must purchase one developer license for each person who will be creating or editing reports in addition to paying yearly maintenance.
Contact busintel@ucsd.edu to request a quote.
How do I get access to Cognos or Tableau?
Users are granted access to Cognos or Tableau via Active Directory (AD) groups.
You are added to specific AD groups based on the kind of user you are and the type of data you would like to use.
Is there a maximum number of folders or projects a user is allowed to have?
No. There is no limit to the number of projects (in Tableau) or folders (in Cognos) that users are allowed to have.
They should, though, use a consistent naming convention, e.g. "Your Department Name - Data Source Name".
Is there a maximum number of AD groups attached to a project or folder?
No. There is no limit to the number of AD groups attached to a project (for Tableau) or folder (for Cognos).
Once an AD group is added to a project or folder, will the members have access to all content?
Yes, all permissions will be set at the project (for Tableau) or folder (for Cognos) level. When an AD group is added to that project/folder the AD group will then have access to all reports in that project/folder.
The Employee Activity Hub includes row level security in addition to the the project/folder security. If your AD group has access to the project/folder but you have not requested access to specific departmental rows then you will be able to run the reports in that project/folder but they will all run blank.
For content where differing permissions are desired, there should be separate projects (in Tableau) or folders (in Cognos).
How do I present my reports to my consumers and analysts?
BIA recommends hosting reports on departmental Blink pages or a custom website.
Here are some examples of existing report pages:
Blink pages: Custom report pages:Will UCPath data be loaded into the campus data warehouse?
No. The only source of UCPath data the Employee Activity Hub (EAH).
Contact the IT Services Business Intelligence and Analytics Team with questions.