Getting Started with the University Data Warehouse

Summary

General information and frequently asked questions about the University Data Warehouse

Body

Overview

The University Data Warehouse is the central authoritative data source for the University. It provides support for reporting, ad hoc data queries, and analytics. In 2024, Pitt Digital began migrating to Snowflake and a Data Lakehouse architecture. The legacy Oracle data warehouse is still being refreshed, but users of financial and HR data are encouraged to use Snowflake.  Student data in Snowflake is planned for release in Fall 2025. Data available includes the Student Information System (PeopleSoft), PRISM, and PantherExpress (purchase orders). Columns from existing and new systems are regularly added to meet new reporting and analytics needs.

Access to the Data Lakehouse is available through supported tools (Tableau and Alteryx), as well as direct access through a SQL client. Access control is governed by a federated authorization process that ensures individuals have access to the data required to be successful in their jobs. See information on Getting Started with the Federated Authorization FedAuth Community.

 

Detail

Frequently Asked Questions

How frequently is the University Data Warehouse/ Lakehouse updated?

Daily (Monday through Saturday).

How is the University Data Warehouse/Lakehouse structured?

Data in the University Data Lakehouse is optimized to suit modern operational and analytics needs.  The legacy Oracle Warehouse uses the star schema method of organizing data, consisting of one or more fact tables referencing any number of dimension tables. For more information on star schema design, click here>. 

How can I request that a new column or data source be added to the University Data Warehouse/Lakehouse?

You can request that a new column or an entirely new data source be added to the University Data Warehouse by contacting the Technology Help Desk and submitting a ticket to the data warehouse team. We may not be able to make all requested changes but we will certainly take them into consideration.

Can I automate data extraction from the University Data Warehouse?

Tableau extracts can be scheduled to run to update underlying dashboards. Automated data feeds to school, department, or business unit systems may be possible, subject to security, volume, and use considerations. Contact the Technology Help Desk for more information.

 

Details

Details

Article ID: 280
Created
Mon 8/7/23 3:54 PM
Modified
Mon 9/29/25 10:20 AM

Related Services / Offerings

Related Services / Offerings (1)

Data Warehouse
DATA Pitt Digital Analytics can work with you to create reusable, regularly refreshed data sets to support standard or ad hoc reports.