How to Add a Link

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The following example uses Figure 14-1 as a model: the kernel universe contains common dimensions; the derived universe contains additional fact tables for a specific user group. For clarity, the kernel universe will be called Kernel and the derived universe will be called Derived. In an actual implementation, use the logical business names (for example, Dimensions and Sales).

As discussed earlier, the kernel universe must contain a secure connection and a designer must have exported the universe to the repository at least once.

1. Create a new universe by selecting File | New from the pull-down menu or clicking New Universe.

2. Designer displays the Universe Parameters. From the Definition tab, enter a universe Name and Description. In the Connection, select the same secure connection used in the kernel universe.

3. Select the Links tab from the Universe Parameters dialog box.

   

4. Click Add Link.

5. Select the universe.unv file to which you want to link. Click Open.

   Note 

   If you have not yet exported the kernel universe to the repository, you will receive an error message. The kernel universe must exist in the repository prior to linking to it.

6. Click OK to close the Universe Parameters dialog box. In the next screen, notice that any linked components are dimmed.

7. You can now re-create any necessary contexts and add new tables, joins, and objects. These items will not be dimmed but will appear as normal in the derived universe.

   

   Note 

   Even if strategies are set to create joins automatically between matching column names (set through File | Parameters, then selecting the Strategies tab), joins are not created automatically between tables in the derived universe and tables in the linked universe.

8. For the link to become active, you must save the universe and export it to the repository. From the pull-down menu, select File | Save, then File | Export, and click OK.

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