Glossary

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A

Access Labels

Object access labels define the level of secrecy of the information stored in them. Subject access labels define categories of secrecy of the information to which they have access.

Access Protocol

Event log: time and date of the events, event type, object names, user names, and so on. Access protocol displays events in accordance with auditing settings.

Accumulation

A calculation method when the value of n-th element of the modeled series is calculated at the following range of input series values: [First series element; n-th series element].

ActionScript

ActionScript is an object-oriented language. It is a dialect of ECMAScript that adds interactive features, data handling, and other functions to the contents of Flash applications. ActionScript is executed by ActionScript Virtual Machine, which is a Flash Player component. ActionScript is compiled into byte code that is included into SWF file.

Active Sheet Area

The area which contains entered data.

ADOMD Catalog

The repository object that is used to access multidimensional data sources based either on Microsoft Analysis Services, or on SAP NetWeaver BW.

Analytical Queries (OLAP)

The Foresight Analytics Platform tool that is used to form ad-hoc queries to data and execute express analysis using business graphics tools and various analytical functions.

Artificial Neural Networks

Mathematical models and their software or hardware implementations inspired by the structure and/or functional aspects of biological neural networks.

ASF

Advanced Systems Format (formerly Advanced Streaming Format, Active Streaming Format) is Microsoft's proprietary digital audio/digital video container format, especially meant for streaming media. ASF is a part of Windows Media.

ASMX File

This file serves as an addressable entry point for web services created in controlled code. The type of response the user gets on addressing this file depends on the order of addressing this file in accordance with HTTP protocol.

Assembly

An object which includes one or more units or forms containing executable application code and compiled as a single whole.

Attribute Type

Custom data type which defines how the attributes are sorted based on their common characteristics.

Auditing

It saves data on subjects' operations to access protocol.

Authentication

Checking if a user-specified password belongs to this user.

Authorization

User registration system.

Autocorrelation of k-th Order from the Time Series X

The measure of closeness and direction of linear stochastic dependency between the current time series values and time series values k moments ago.

Automatic Cube

A cube created using the top-to-bottom principle.

Autoregression

A statistical method which uses previous values to predict future values.

Autoupdate

Express report mode which causes automatic update of server data each time the data set is changed.

Autoupdate

Updating Foresight Analytics Platform version on login to repository.

Average Value

Arithmetic mean calculated by summing up all values in a group and dividing this value by the number of group values.

A1 Cell Style

Style, in which columns in links are indicated as letters and rows are indicated as digits. The $ character is used to indicate absolute links. Example: A1, B$2, $C$3.

B

Backup Copy of Metadata Repository

A backup copy of repository version may require to restore lost or modified data.

Baxter-King Filter

Method of time series smoothing (a modification of the Hodrick-Prescott filter) which provides better opportunities for excluding cyclical component from a time series.

BI

Tools that are used to convert, store, analyze, model, deliver, and trace data when working on tasks associated with making decisions based on actual data.

BI Search

Full text data search by keywords in the structure of multidimensional repository sources. In Foresight Analytics Platform BI search is implemented based on the Apache Solr search platform.

C

Calculated Cube

This cube enables the user to calculate the values of indicators using the values of other cube indicators and defined formulas.

Calculated Cube Fact

A cube fact calculated in accordance with a user-defined function.

Calculated Dictionary

A dictionary, which data is populated in accordance with the custom algorithm implemented using internal programming language.

Calculated Factors

Factors calculated in accordance with a user-defined function.

Calculated Series

A series calculated using selected method based on the data of other series.

Calendar Dictionary

A dictionary which implements hierarchical view of a timeline with selected detailing. Foresight Analytics Platform calendar dictionary can execute drill down by the following levels: years, 9 months, half-years, quarters, months, weeks and days. The calendar dictionary contents is generated automatically.

Cell

The intersection of a row and a column in a spreadsheet which has a unique address.

Cells Size Autofit

Setting cell size so that the cell contents is displayed in the best way.

Census2

Method of seasonal decomposition and adjustment.

Clustering

Combining objects and observations into disjoint groups called clusters based on the value proximity of their attributes. As a result, each cluster has objects similar in their properties and different from the objects in other clusters. The more similar are the objects within one cluster and the more different they are from the objects in other clusters, the better is the clustering.

Collection of Composite Expressions

A collection of compound expressions which belong to the same owner. Compound expressions included into a collection are not interdependent.

Collection of Sets of Composite Expressions

A collection of sets of composite expressions which belong to the same owner. Sets included into a collection are not interdependent.

Combobox

A drop-down list with an edit box.

Comment

Notes or annotations for an object.

Compiling

Compiling is a process of testing code syntax which produces executable assembly file.

Component (development environment)

A control that executes certain functions, which has both general and specific properties.

Composite MDM Dictionary

An object of MDM repository which includes both its own elements and elements of other MDM repositories.

Composite Term

A syntax construction indicating data. A composite term consists of term name and a sequence containing one or several arguments which also represent terms. For example: X1 + X2 or Input_1[t] * Input_2[t].

Configuration File

This file that stores information on the objects that should be executed by tasks scheduler, and information on the mail server if notifications should be sent.

Consumer

A consumer object that gets data from transformer outputs and loads data to external sources or objects of the current repository.

Control Expression

An expression based on attributes of controlling dimension that is used to calculate the value passed as value of controlled dimension parameter.

Controlled Dimension

Values of controlled dimension parameters change dynamically when selection of controlling dimension changes.

Controlling Dimension

Values of controlling dimension attributes are used to control parameters of another dimension. A control expression is calculated and the result is passed as value of the controlled dimension parameter.

Copying Data

This object is used to load large amount of data directly from a provider to a consumer without using intermediary transformers or consumer objects. It is used in ETL tasks.

Credentials

User name and password that are used to connect to server.

Cube

A multidimensional object with cells containing data (facts) and axes (dictionaries) determining dimensions (characteristics) of indicators stored in the cube.

Cube Facts

An internal cube dictionary which forms one of cube dimensions. If there is only one fact the dictionary is a degenerate (singular) one.

Cube Display Versions

A set of aggregation options for a cube. Display versions are used to select aggregation in reports.

Cube Loader

A repository object which serves to populate a cube with data from another cube.

Cube View

A cube based on the data of another cube but having smaller dimensions.

Custom Metadata

A set of settings which determines parameters of custom objects that can be created and used in the repository.

Custom Method

A procedure or function which calculates or converts data in accordance with user-defined algorithm. User-defined (custom) calculation methods can be used in time series databases and modeling containers. Depending on the file, in which the user method is applied, the signature of procedure or function may vary. To pass data series to procedure or function, use parameters of the ITimeSeries type. A modeling container supports the use of user methods implemented in templates. To make such a method work the template must contain an implementation of the IMsUserTransformImplementation.Execute method. For details on signature of procedures and functions used as custom methods see the section: User Methods: Syntax of Procedures and Functions.

D

Dashboards

The Foresight  Analytics Platform tool that is used to create analytical documents as a combination of interactive interrelated dashboards. Dashboards display data from various data sources by means of business graphics, images and controls.

Data Aggregation

Calculation of data of an upper level based on lower level data.

Data Area

Report area displaying a data slice.

Database (DB)

Repository object containing main settings to connect to the existing database created on DBMS server.

Database Authorization

Checking if the user can connect to the database.

Data Binding

Mapping of data provider attributes with data consumer attributes.

Data Mining

Detecting of hidden facts and linkages in large datasets. The obtained data can be used to make decisions in various spheres of human activity.

Data Normalization

  1. Estimate of time series or chart series norm. The term is used in data analysis in various Foresight Analytics Platform tools.

  2. Rendering data to the same measurement units (scaling). The term is used on data import and export in the time series database.

Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from external providers to further transform this data.

Data Range

A subset of data in time series database that is defined by setting selection for a dimension or calendar of the time series database.

Data Slice

Two-dimensional data table obtained by fixing one or several of the multidimensional cube dimensions.

Data Warehouse (DW)

Organization data array, specifically structured, providing quick access to information, multidimensional data analysis, getting forecasts and various statistics in dimensions of conformed master data.

DBMS

Database system management.

DBMS Command

This repository object enables the user to work with database objects using SQL queries. It is used to extract, refresh, delete and paste existing data. It is also used to create, replace, change and delete physical database objects.

DBMS Command: ETL

This object is used to export data using the DBMS Command repository object. It is used in ETL tasks.

Deduplication

it derives from the Latin word deduplicatio - removing duplicates. Deduplication is a specialized data array compression technique for eliminating duplicate copies of repeating data.

Default Repository

The repository that opens by default on Foresight Analytics Platform start.

Derived Password

Encrypted password.

Development Environment

An integrated block of Foresight  Analytics Platform which includes all tools required to design, create, run, and test custom applications.

Dictionary

A linear list of elements which contains brief and accurate information on some objects.

Dictionary Attribute

A characteristic available for each dictionary element.

Dictionary Block

The main structure element of a dictionary which represents a group of elements based on data obtained from the same data source.

Dimension

Dictionary used in multidimensional cube building.

Discretionary Access Control Method

A method of access restriction. This method is based on using access control lists assigned to each system object. Access permissions are defined for each object.

Document Section

The documents are conventionally divided into sections. A section of a regular report is each separate sheet or text sheet. A section of an express report or of the workspace is the entire document.

DOM

Document Object Model (DOM) is a cross-platform and language-independent programming interface which enables programs and scripts access contents of HTML, XHTML and XML documents, and to change contents, structure and formatting of such documents.

Domain Authorization

This type of authorization requires the user to explicitly specify domain, user name and password.

Drop-Down List

A list that does not have any entry fields.

E

ECMAScript

ECMAScript is an embedded expandable scripting language that does not have input/output tools, and is commonly used as a basis to create other scripting languages. Language extensions, JavaScript, JScript, and ActionScript, are widely used in the web application.

Element Card

A set of values of selected dictionary element attributes.

Element Group Primitive

A collection of dictionary elements formed based on some common characteristics.

End of Forecast

End point of a forecasting series.

End of Retrospection

End point of a retrospective series.

Endogenous Variables

Interdependent variables that are defined within a model (system). As a rule, each equation of a model determines a single endogenous variable in the left part of the equation.

ETL

Extract, Transform, Load is one of the basic processes in database usage and especially in data warehousing.

ETL Task

A repository object that serves to extract, transform and load data.

Exogenous Variables

Independent variables that are defined outside a model (system).

Express Report

Report created in the Analytical Queries (OLAP) tool.

Extended Data Warehouse Repository

This repository is used to create and update a special data warehouse which is used by Java components on the system level.

External Table

A repository table which is created based on a table available on the server. The difference between external tables and standard tables is the following: when the user deletes an external table, the physical database object referenced by the external table is not deleted.

F

Faceted Search

The BI search type using which search results are grouped by values of the specified field - faceted field. This type of search is implemented using macro on Fore/Fore.NET. Faceted field can present one category used for data grouping. Several faceted fields can be used for faceted search.

Factors

Input variables which affect the modeled (output) variable.

Feature

The term is used to identify a Foresight Analytics Platform tool or functionality that are licensed.

Field Separator

A character separating data fields.

Filtering Strategy

A collection of parameters, based on which one forms queries to retrieve data when creating a cube.

Fixed Dimension

Collapsed dimension of a multidimensional cube.

Flat Data

Data shown as a spreadsheet (table).

Forecasting Period

At this period one calculates total values taking into account data of the sample period and using a selected calculation method.

Form

An object that is used to create user application interface. A form is a container for any component available in the development environment. Each form has a corresponding unit or unit containing description of form class and its executable code. The code must be written in the Fore or Fore.NET language (.NET unit).

Formatting Styles

A set of parameters that is used to create uniform object design.

Formula Actual Period

The period at which calculation is executed following the specified formula.

Formula Area

A cell range on report sheet, which values are calculated following the same formula.

Formula Bar

Formula bar is a field at the top of regular report window which is used to enter or edit cell values and formulas.

Formulas Table

Table containing multidimensional calculation formula on the DB server. Each formula is represented by the separate record in the table by putting operands in the required table fields. When calculating on the server, the fields values are used by the executed procedure.

Foresight Analytics Platform

An integrated platform for creating BI applications.

Free Attribute

Name of an unattached attribute.

Function Approximation

For a function f one finds a function g which somehow nears the function f and gives an approximate idea of it.

Functional Form Criterion (RESET)

A generalized test that checks specification of linear regression models for errors.

Functionality

Feature for blocks of functions of Foresight Analytics Platform.

G

GAC

The Global Assembly Cache or GAC is a machine-wide command cache presented by .NET Framework structure and is used to store assemblies that need to be accessed by multiple applications on a workstation. For details on Global Assembly Cache see additional sources: Windows Help, MSDN.

GDI

The Graphics Device Interface is a Microsoft Windows interface responsible for representing graphical objects and transmitting them to output devices such as monitors and printers. GDI is responsible for tasks such as drawing lines and curves, rendering fonts and handling palettes. However, GDI lacks rasterization for 3D graphics.

GDI+

With the introduction of Windows XP, GDI was deprecated in favor of its successor, the C++ based GDI+ subsystem, which is an advanced environment for 2D graphics. GDI+ adds line smoothing, floating point coordinates, gradient shading, intrinsic support for modern graphics-file formats like JPEG and PNG, support for 2D matrix transformation, and so on. GDI+ uses ARGB values to represent color. These features are used in Windows XP user interface, and their presence in the basic graphics layer greatly simplifies implementations of vector-graphics systems such as Flash or SVG.

Global Variables

Variables, which values are available in all platform objects within the current working Foresight Analytics Platform tool.

Group of Elements

A repository object used in dictionaries to limit the list of available elements.

GUID

Statistically unique 128 bit identifier.

H

Help System

A collection of files that are used to receive the most accurate information on problems concerning usage, operation, setup and development in Foresight Analytics Platform. The local Help system comes with Foresight Analytics Platform. Online Help is the web version of the Help system.

Hidden Folder

The folder that cannot be read by the user who does not have read permissions. Such folder and its contents is not displayed in the repository. If the hidden folder contains objects which do not inherit access permissions from the parent folder, and the user can read these objects, these objects can be accessed using the Fore language.

Hodrick-Prescott Filter

Method of time series smoothing, which is used to determine long-term trends of a time series.

I

Identifier

A unique sequence of Latin letters, digits and underscores providing a unique identification of the object among others. The identifier should start with letter or underscore.

In Foresight Analytics Platform identifiers are used for all repository objects and metadata structure elements: dimension and dictionaries attributes, indexes, selection schemas and others.

Impersonation

Executing of operations by one user on behalf of another. It is used in Foresight Analytics Platform on working of BI services for user authorization by means of accounts in various social networks: LiveJournal, Google+.

Indicator

This is an element of a time series database: a time data series described by a unique collection of attribute values.

Indicators Attributes

A set of characteristics, which values make an indicator different from all other indicators.

Input Variable

Input variable, to which the model calculation method is applied.

Installer

A tool for distributing software. Foresight Analytics Platform is distributed as EXE files.

Integrated Domain Authorization

Authorization which uses the same user name and password as the user specified to connect the domain.

IntelliSense

This technology enables users to analyze code by showing certain types and type members that can be used in the current position of the code.

Interpolation

Calculating data of a lower level based on upper level data.

J

JSON View

JavaScript Object Notation - is a text format of data interchange based on JavaScript and generally used with this language.

L

LRX Filter

Method of time series smoothing, which is used to determine long-term trends of a time series. It is a general case of the Hodrick-Prescott filter.

Layer

A collection of objects of the same type: rivers and reservoirs, roads, vegetation, regions, and so on.

Legend

Detailing of values displayed on a chart, map, or table.

License

This is a special file with activation codes for features and information on available ways of using the product.

License Manager

This application gives access to the list of installed licenses and enables the user to execute operations with these licenses.

Link

An ETL task object which sets correspondence between input fields of an object and output fields of another object.

Log

Repository object that is used to log operations executed during ETL task execution.

M

Macro

Code written in Fore or Fore.NET.

Mandatory Access Control Method

A method of access restriction. It is based on assigning access labels to system subjects and objects.

Map Indicators

Pie, bar or cartographic, displaying values connected with the territories.

Mathematical Model

This is a mathematical representation of a real process which describes its crucial properties in terms of mathematical expressions: laws which it obeys, links between process components, and so on.

Maximum Likelihood Method

A method of estimating an unknown parameter.

MDM

Master data management (MDM) is a quasi-permanent component of corporate information which serves as a base to unify and normalize data related to business processes and to regulate activities of the Company.

MDM Dictionary

A collection of elements containing scientific, industrial or application information with the same theme.

MDM Dictionary Attribute

A characteristics available for each element of MDM dictionaries.

MDM Dictionary Export Schema

A set of parameters in accordance with which the data is loaded from an MDM dictionary to a table.

MDM Dictionary Import Schema

A set of parameters in accordance with which the data is loaded from a table to an MDM dictionary.

MDM Repository

A centralized storage of master data which ensures data consistency and consolidation, eliminates redundancies and optimizes data search.

Measure

A basic unit of measurement based on which various subunits are defined.

Metamodel

This model describes structure and hierarchical calculation order for other models.

Measurement Unit

Numeric value of a physical quantity that is used as a standard for representing results of measuring.

Median

This value of a varying characteristic represents the center of a series of characteristic's numeric values arranged in ascending or descending order.

MIME

Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions is an Internet standard that describes transmitting various data types via e-mail, as well as a specification for coding information and formatting messages so that they could be sent via the Internet.

Mnemonics

This unique value is generated based on values of object attributes and is used for object identification.

Mode

The most frequently occurring value of a varying characteristic in a variation series.

Model

A model is a substitute object that under certain conditions can be used instead of an original object because it reproduces properties and characteristics of the original and at the same time is more convenient and has a number of advantages (visualization, accessibility, comprehensibility, and so on).

Modeling

The process of creating, studying and applying models.

Modeling Container

A repository object that is used to form mathematical models of various processes (events) and to execute calculations based on these models.

Modeling and Forecasting

The Foresight Analytics Platform tool that is used to analyze data, create models of various processes (for example, economic ones), and execute analytical calculations on their basis. The tool enables the user to build complex hierarchical multistep models for scenario multivariate calculations.

Modeling Problem

An object of modeling container which calculates model in accordance with the sequence defined in the metamodel. It is used to get calculation results and load them to the specified variables.

Modeling Scenario

A collection of source data and assumptions used in modeling. A scenario is also used to create in a modeling variable a series, to which the data should be loaded after completing calculation of the modeling problem.

Modeling Scenarios

An object that is used to create in a modeling variable a series, to which the data should be loaded after completing calculation of the modeling problem.

Multidimensional Mode

In this workbook view mode the time series database opens as a cube.

Multilingual MDM Dictionary

This type of MDM dictionary stores attribute values both for the current language and also for the languages, in which you intend to use this dictionary.

Multi OLAP

OLAP based on multiple data sources.

Multiple Selection

Multiple elements can be selected in a list.

N

Name

A meaningful string of characters (describing object functionality or its contents).

Non-Existing Factors

These factors are calculated as a difference between Cartesian product of attributes of all factors displayed in the time series database and the existing factors.

Non-Recursive Dictionary

A dictionary with the number of levels fixed at its creation and independent on the data based on which the dictionary is created.

Non-Visual Component

This component appears only at the stage of form designing.

Normalization

Normalization usually involves introducing additional information in order to solve an ill-posed problem. This information is usually of the form of a penalty for complexity. For example, restrictions for smoothness of the resultant function or bounds on the vector space norm. The least-squares method can be regarded as a simple form of normalization.

O

Object Locking

Object state when it is blocked from being edited by another user.

Observation Attributes

A set of characteristics available for each observation (point) of a factor.

OLAP

Online analytical processing is a technology of data processing which includes designing and dynamic publishing of reports and documents. It is used to quickly process complicated database queries and compose business reports.

OLE DB

Object linking and embedding database is a set of interfaces implemented using the Component Object Model (COM) to access data from a variety of sources and data warehouses in a uniform manner.

Operation Log

A file to which the system records operations executed by task scheduler.

OS

Operating system.

Output Variable

Variable, to which the data after modeling problem calculation is saved.

P

Panel Data

Panel data contains observations on multiple phenomena observed over multiple time periods. For example, financial performance of several large unit investment trust over several months; sum of taxes paid by oil companies over the last years; semesterly GPA of students from several groups, and so on.

Password Authorization

This type of authorization requires the user to explicitly specify user name and password.

Password Policy

The rules which set requirements to user passwords.

Phantom

A translucent image of selected area which follows mouse cursor when objects are dragged.

Plain Term

An elementary syntax construction indicating data. String literals, integer values and characters can be used as plain terms. For example, X1 or Input_1[t].

Plugin

An independently compiled unit dynamically plugged into a main program to extend and/or use its functionality.

Pointwise Mode of Problem Calculation

In this calculation method problem models are calculated one after another for each scenario point: first, all models are calculated for the first scenario point, then all models are calculated for the second scenario point, and so on. Forecasting problems are used to calculate problems in pointwise mode: the IMsForecastingProblem interface.

Predefined Variables

Exogenous and lag (for the previous periods or moments in time) endogenous variables of the model (system).

Prerequisites

Software required to install and run Foresight Analytics Platform.

Private Dimension

Unique dimension of multi OLAP data source.

Privilege

Operations that are or are not allowed to be executed for a system user.

Procedure: ETL

This object transforms data using a user-defined macro implemented in the Fore or Fore.NET languages. It is used in ETL tasks.

Procedure (repository object)

A repository object that gives access to a procedure stored on the server.

Principal Components Weights

Eigenvector values.

Q

Query

A repository object that represents a sample from tables (spreadsheets) made based on a selected condition. A query can be used as a data source by dimensions or cubes.

R

Recursive Dictionary

A dictionary with levels number that cannot be fixed at dictionary creation, as the number of levels depend on the data on which the dictionary is based.

Refreshing Data

Automatic refresh of data source each time the data set in express report is changed.

Reg-free COM registration

This technology allows for installing Foresight Analytics Platform without registering object classes and types libraries in the registry.

Regular Polygons

Geometric shapes: triangle, quadrangle, pentagon, hexagon, and octagon.

Regular Report

A collection of spreadsheets and text sheets which may contain data areas, charts, maps, and other objects. It is created using the Reports tool.

Relational Data Area

Relational data area directly shows data from relational objects such as data tables, queries, and views.

Relational Object

This repository object is used to implement relational data model which represents all the repository objects and links between them as tables.

Report Calculation

Operations executed on a report which includes addressing database, updating data on report sheets, and calculating formulas.

Reports

The Foresight Analytics Platform tool that is used to create, view and print regular reports with an arbitrary structure of displaying data.

Repository

A warehouse for system and service information about platform objects: tables, indexes, dimensions, cubes, and so on.

Repository Connection

This repository object that is used to get access to data of another repository.

Repository Manager

The application system administrator tool for automating the process of updating of Foresight Analytics Platform versions, repository and MDM repository versions.

Retrospection Start

Starting point of a retrospective series.

Revision Label

This label is created by the user and stores the state of indicators data for the current moment.

Revisions

Revisions store history of indicators data changes.

RIA

Rich Internet application is an application accessible via the Internet that has many of the functionalities of desktop application software not supported directly in browsers.

Ribbon

This is a tool for working with commands arranged in logical groups and displayed on tabs; each tab is related to the type of executed operations.

Role Authentication

In this authentication type each user is associated with a certain role.

R1C1 Cell Style

Style, in which rows and columns are indicated as digits. To indicate the link, the reserved combination Rn1Cn2 is used, where n1 is the row number, n2 is the column number. To indicate relative links the row/column numbers are specified in square brackets and mean shifts relative to the current cell with formula. Example: R0C0, R1,C[-1], R[-2]C[-3].

S

Sample Period

The period at which variable values are known. At this period one calculates the model series to further use it to calculate forecast and various factors.

Scheduled Tasks Container

A repository object that works with delayed tasks: cube or report calculation, execution of macros, and so on.

Schema

The name of the database to which connection is established.

Security Labels

The labels are used to determine flexible access to dictionary elements. Security labels form a security bit mask, in accordance with which certain actions with dimension elements will be allowed or prohibited.

Security Policy

A set of rules that determine methods and level of application system's protection and regulate access permissions for system objects. The security policy contains parameters that have global effect on the system protection level. The protection level can be defined for certain objects via changing their access control lists and access labels.

Security Subsystem

A set of tools that protect from unauthorized access to Foresight Analytics Platform and platform-based applications.

Selection Schema

This repository object that is used in dictionaries to automatically select elements in accordance with predefined rules.

Selection Schema Primitive

A rule following which elements are selected.

Sequence

An ordered list of values.

Series Attributes

A set of characteristics available for each factor.

Series Mode

A mode of displaying a workbook when factors are shown as series.

Series Mode of Problem Calculation

The calculation mode when problem models are calculated one after another for all scenario points: first, the first model is calculated for all scenario points, then the second model is calculated for all scenario points, and so on. Transformation problems are used to calculate problems in series mode: the IMsTransformationProblem interface.

Server Aggregation

Aggregation configured for cube facts and executed on DBMS server. Server aggregation saves resources of user workstation due to executing resource-intensive operations directly on the server. Server aggregation is configured via the Fore language. Use appropriate properties of the IStandardCubeFactBinding interface to configure aggregation.

Server Repository

A metadata schema stored on database server.

Set of Composite Expressions

A collection of interrelated composite expressions which belong to the same owner.

Set of Expressions

A collection of interrelated expressions which belong to the same owner.

Shapes

Geometric shapes: rectangle, ellipse, rounded rectangle, regular polygons, shaped arrows.

Single Selection

Only one element can be selected in the list.

Smart Search

The BI search type by free dimensions of sources. Free dimension is a dimension used in search but elements of this dimension are not included into search result names.

Spreadsheet

An electronic matrix divided into rows and columns, the intersection of which forms cells with unique names. Cells are the main element of spreadsheets that can be used to store entered data and referred to by cell names. The data includes: numbers, dates, time of the day, text or character data, and formulas.

Standard Deviation

This measure shows how wide data points are spread around their mean.

Standard Error

The estimation of deviation of predicted value for an individual value.

System Environment

Operating system settings required for Foresight Analytics Platform.

System Requirements

Requirements for client computers or server that should be met to provide correct installation and work of Foresight Analytics Platform.

System/Security Subjects

User and group of users.

Slowly Changing Dimensions

There are two architectural concepts: normalized data warehouses and dimensional data warehouses. Normalized data warehouses store data in subject-oriented tables of the third normal form: data marts. Normalized data warehouses are easy to create and manage. The main disadvantages of normalized warehouses is large amount of excessive information and difficulties with integrating data from several tables.

Dimensional warehouses use star or snowflake schemes. The centre of a star consists of data (fact table) and the dimensions form arms of the star. Different fact tables may use dimension tables together which greatly simplifies combining data from multiple fact tables (for example, fact of selling and delivering goods). Data tables and corresponding dimensions form bus architecture. To log dimension changes, the dimensions are often created in third normal form (slowly changing dimensions). The key advantage of dimensional warehouses is that they are easy to understand for developers and users. Due to effective method of data storage and formalized dimensions, the retrieval of data from the data warehouse tends to operate easier and quicker, especially when complex analysis is performed. The main disadvantages of the dimensional approach are complicated procedures of data preparation and loading; and difficult controlling and changing data dimensions.

System/Security Subjects

Users and groups of users..

Styles Table

A collection of cell styles.

T

Table

A repository object that gives access to physical table on the server.

Table Dictionary

A dictionary based on a data grid of a certain format, when each grid record forms a dictionary element.

Table MDM Dictionary

An MDM dictionary that uses a separate table to store data.

Table Rotation

When a table is rotated, fixed dimensions remain in their previous place, and the dimensions located in rows and columns are swapped. The order of dimensions within a group does not change.

Task Scheduler

The application in Foresight Analytics Platform that enables the user to run resource intensive tasks on the server side.

Term

An expression of formal language which is a formal name of an object.

Territory Labels

Text labels containing territory names and numbers as well as values of the indicators related to territory.

Text Delimiter

This character indicates data field beginning and end.

The Access Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to Microsoft Access (*.mdb) files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Dbase Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to DBase III, DBase IV and DBase 5 (*.dbf) files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Excel Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to Microsoft Excel (*.xls) files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The OleDB Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to databases using OLE DB. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Repository Data Consumer

This object is used to load data to objects of the current repository. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Text Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to a text file (*.txt). It is used in ETL tasks.

The User Consumer Data Consumer

This object is used to load data to a consumer using custom algorithm. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Visual FoxPro Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to Visual FoxPro database. It is used in ETL tasks.

The XML Data Consumer

This object is used to export data to XML file (*.xml). It is used in ETL tasks.

The Access Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from Microsoft Access (.mdb) files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Delete Duplicates Transformer

This object deletes duplicates in data. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Filter Transformer

This object filters data in accordance with defined parameters. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Group Transformer

This object groups data. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Transform Transformer

This object transforms incoming data and loads transformed data to one or multiple consumers depending on the type of transformation. It is used in ETL tasks.

The User Algorithm Transformer

This object transforms data using a user-defined algorithm implemented in the Fore or Fore.NET languages. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Dbase Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from DBase III, Dbase IV and DBase 5 (*.dbf) files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Excel Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from Microsoft Excel (*.xls) files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Identity Field

An autoincrement field, that is, a field that generates unique number for each table record. On adding a new record this field automatically shows the number which is always greater than the number generated for previous record.

The Join Transformer

This object is used for data join. The specified conditions are checked before data join. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Metamodel Object

This object unites models into a chain that should be calculated using a modeling problem.

The Model Object

This object forms mathematical description of an operator which converts observed input into its reaction. This object allows for setting various calculation methods.

The ODBC Data Provider

This repository object grants access to various data sources that support working via ODBC drivers.

The OLE DB Data Provider

This object is used to extract database data using OLE DB. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Paradox Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from the Paradox database. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Problem object

This object calculates models of the selected metamodel one after another to get output data in output variables.

The Repository Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from objects of the current repository. It used in ETL tasks.

The Sort Transformer

This object sorts data. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Split Transformer

This object splits data. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Text Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from text files (*.txt). It is used in ETL tasks.

The Transformation Object

This object transforms data following user-defined formulas.

The Union Transformer

This object is used for data union. It is used in ETL tasks.

The User Provider Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from a source using custom algorithm implemented in the Fore or Fore.NET language. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Variable Object

This object is used to get source data and return results of executing the calculation algorithm.

The Visual FoxPro Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from the Visual FoxPro database. It is used in ETL tasks.

The Web Page Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from HTML files. It is used in ETL tasks.

The XML Data Provider

This object is used to extract data from XML files (*.xml). It is used in ETL tasks.

Time Lag

A factor that shows time lead or lag of a phenomenon as compared with another related factor.

Time Series Analysis

The Foresight Analytics Platform tool that is used to find time series structure and their forecasting by means of mathematical and statistical analysis methods.

Time Series Database (TSDB)

A dictionary which includes both its own elements and elements of other MDM dictionaries.

Topobase

A collection of superimposed graphic information layers.

U

Unit

An object that contains executable code written in the Fore or Fore.NET language (.NET unit).

Update Manager

A tool that is used to synchronize application system versions used by developers and end users of Foresight Analytics Platform.

Usability

The total estimate of the ease of object's use. The international standard ISO 9241-11 defines usability as "The extent to which a product can be used by specified users to achieve specified goals with effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction in a specified context of use".

Usability Testing

Usability testing is executed to determine how successfully people can use a certain human-made object (such as a web page, user interface or a device), that is, usability testing measures objects' usability.

User

A subject of system security who has certain permissions for working with system objects.

User Group

System security subjects grouped under the same name to provide uniform control over their access permissions.

V

Value-At-Risk (VaR)

Value at risk. It is commonly denoted as VaR. VaR is estimate of the value that will not be exceeded by the expected loss on the portfolio over the given time horizon (expressed in monetary units).

Variable

A data set that is used to get source data and load the results of calculation algorithm execution.

Version Control

These settings determine parameters of checking out the objects when they are edited.

Version Control System (VCS)

This system stores resource data, assemblies, forms, and units (and their .NET analogs) and provides opportunities for multiple users to work with latest object versions. Version control system of Foresight Analytics Platform is based on GIT.

View

A repository object that represents a logical table, which data is obtained by extracting data from database tables using SQL queries.

Version MDM Dictionary

An MDM dictionary, which elements may change in time, that is, the range of value validity is set for each element: start date and end date of validity period.

Virtual Cube

A cube that is created based on data of other cubes. Cube facts dimension is generated based on selected elements of fixed dimensions. On viewing virtual cube data in an express report, the dimension panel shows non-fixed common dimensions of source cubes and the dimension of virtual cube facts.

Visual Component

This component appears both at the design stage and during form execution.

Visualizer

Object for visual data view. For example, map, chart, table.

W

Window Components

Components that can get focused, can contain other controls and appear in their own window. All visual components of development environment except the Label, Bevel and ImageBox are window components.

Windowless Components

Components that cannot get focused, cannot contain other controls and work without their own window. The windowless components are Label, Bevel, and ImageBox.

Windows Presentation Foundation

WPF (code name - Avalon) is a graphical (presentation) subsystem included into .NET Framework (starting from 3.0), which is directly related to XAML.

Windows Service

A Windows service is an application that automatically runs at Windows startup without a user being logged into the system.

Wizard

A wizard is an interactive helper that guides the user through multi-step tasks. Effective wizards require less training and knowledge for task execution in comparison with other interfaces.

Workbook

This is the main functional area of a time series database that is used to work with time series data.

Working Area

A container containing ETL task objects.

X

XAML

eXtensible Application Markup Language is a declarative XML-based language created by Microsoft that is used to initialize structured values and objects.

XML

eXtensible Markup Language. This markup language that actually a set of general syntax rules is recommended by WorldWide Web Consortium.

Z

Zero Distribution

A distribution corresponding to null hypothesis.

#

80/20 Analysis

This function enables the user to display minimum set of values which make up 80% of the grand total of column values, the least values (20%) are shown as a summed total within their parent.