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TDWI Education

In-Depth Business Intelligence and


Data Warehousing Education

TDWI Exam Perparation for CBIP

September

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

ii © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Module 1 An Overview of CBIP ……............….................... 1-1


TABLE OF CONTENTS
Module 2 About the Exams................................................... 2-1

Module 3 The Exam Body of Knowledge.………………..… 3-1

Module 4 Exam Practice...............………………………........ 4-1

Module 5 Getting Ready for Exams ………………...……… 5-1

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Module 1
An Overview of CBIP

Topic Page
CBIP Specialties 1-2

Levels of Certification 1-16

The CBIP Exams 1-20

1-1
An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Overview of Specialties

Business Analytics

tion Da
Int egra ta
Da t a and Anal
De ysis
s ig
n

and
Adm
rship ent
and inistrat de m
Tech io Lea anage
nolo n M
gy

Balancing Business and Technical Literacy


100

50

0
Business Analytics Leadership & Data Analysis & Data Integration Administration &
Management Design Technology

Business Literacy Technical Literacy

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Overview of Specialties

FIVE CORE The field of business intelligence logically segments into five core
DISCIPLINES disciplines:

• Leadership and Management with attention to both program and


project levels of BI activity.
• Business Analytics concentrating on applied measurement as a business
management tool.
• Data Analysis and Design that is essential to provide the data-to-
information foundation of BI.
• Data Integration as a core discipline to achieve consistency, cohesion,
and continuity of business information.
• Administration and Technology that is necessary to create and sustain a
business intelligence infrastructure.

BALANCING Business intelligence is both a business and a technology endeavor. BI


BUSINESS AND success depends largely on bringing business and technology together in
TECHNICAL SKILLS the right ways. Every BI discipline demands knowledge of both business
and technology. The balance of business and technical literacy, however,
is variable depending on the discipline. The chart on the facing page
illustrates a practical balance between business and technical literacy for
each of the five disciplines. An ideal business analyst, for example,
attains a body of knowledge and skill that is approximately seventy
percent business focused and thirty percent technically focused. At the
opposite end of the spectrum, an administration and technology
professional has strong technological knowledge combined with
sufficient business knowledge to apply and manage technology in a
meaningful business context.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-3


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Leadership and Management

Focus
Integrating people, process, and technology to deliver business value

Impact
A key success factor for business intelligence and data warehousing programs
and projects

Body of Knowledge
• Process knowledge including development methodologies
• Program and project management
• Organization management and team-building skills
• Business concepts including BPM, CRM, SCM, etc.
• Understanding of BI concepts and applications

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Leadership and Management

THE SPECIALTY Leadership and Management is a key success factor for BI programs and
projects, with strong focus on effectively integrating people, processes,
and technology to deliver business value. The field requires depth of
process knowledge including development methodology, program
management, and project management as well as organizational and
team-building skills. An understanding of business topics such as
Business Performance Management (BPM), Customer Relationship
Management (CRM), and Supply Chain Management (SCM) is also
needed. High-level technical understanding of BI applications and data
warehousing concepts is also part of the Leadership and Management
body of knowledge.

TYPICAL JOB Roles that require this knowledge include program manager, project
ROLES manager, and business intelligence architect.

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An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Business Analytics

Focus
Effective use of data and information to drive positive
business actions and business outcomes

Impact
Fundamental to achieving value from BI … Completes the BI value chain,
connecting information to knowledge, knowledge to actions, and actions
to outcomes

Body of Knowledge
• Concepts of business performance management
• Concepts of business measurement - retrospective and predictive analytics
• Definition and delivery of business measures and metrics
• Data visualization
• Business analytics technologies - OLAP, dashboards, scorecards, etc.

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Business Analytics

THE SPECIALTY Business Analytics focuses on effective use of data and information to
drive positive business actions. The body of knowledge for this area
includes both business and technical topics including concepts of
performance management, definition and delivery of business metrics,
data visualization, and deployment and use of technology solutions such
as OLAP, dashboards, scorecards, analytic applications, and data mining.

TYPICAL JOB Business intelligence roles that demand business analytics knowledge and
ROLES skills include business sponsor, business subject expert, knowledge
worker, data steward, business requirements analyst, and developer of
business analytics systems. Roles with broad scope of responsibility such
as business intelligence architect, metadata administrator, quality
administrator, and customer service personnel also benefit from a solid
foundation in business analytics.

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An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Data Analysis and Design

Focus
Understanding business needs for data and information
and translating those needs to the necessary data structures

Impact
Establishes the foundation for delivery of BI applications which depend upon data
structures that are adaptable, extensible, and sustainable

Body of Knowledge
• Business requirements analysis – especially information needs
• Analysis, design, and specification of business metrics
• Data modeling – both relational and dimensional
• Data integration and data management practices
• Data warehousing concepts and architectures

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Data Analysis and Design

THE SPECIALTY Data Analysis and Design provides the foundation for delivery of BI
applications. Analysis concentrates on understanding business needs for
data and information. Design focuses on translating business information
needs into data structures that are adaptable, extensible, and sustainable.
Core skills include information needs analysis, specification of business
metrics, and data modeling. Solid understanding of data warehousing
concepts, architectures, and processes is also essential.

TYPICAL JOB Common roles in this area include data steward, information architect,
ROLES data modeler, source data analyst, and database developer. A few roles
that are broad in scope—business intelligence architect, metadata
administrator, and quality administrator also benefit from this body of
knowledge.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-9


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Data Integration

Focus
The processes to acquire data from disparate sources,
consolidate into a enterprise data resource, and ensure data quality

Impact
Fundamental to data warehousing and a vital process to provide a rich and robust
data resource for delivery of BI applications

Body of Knowledge
• Source data analysis and qualification
• Data profiling
• Source-to-target mapping of data
• Data transformation and data cleansing
• ETL development, processes, and technologies

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Data Integration

THE SPECIALTY Data Integration is fundamental to data warehousing and is a vital process
for a rich and robust data resource to deliver BI solutions. Integration
includes all of the activities necessary to acquire data from sources, and to
transform and cleanse the data. The body of knowledge includes concepts
and skills for source data analysis and source qualification, data profiling,
source/target mapping, data cleansing and transformation, and ETL
development.

TYPICAL JOB Data integration skills are essential in roles such as data steward, data
ROLES acquisition architect, source data analyst, and ETL developer. These skills
are valuable in broader roles such as business intelligence architect,
metadata administrator, and quality administrator.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-11


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Administration and Technology

Focus
Managing the infrastructure for data warehousing and
business intelligence systems

Impact
Ensures continuous operation BI and data warehousing systems and availability
of essential business information

Body of Knowledge
• Technology architecture, planning, and configuration
• System and network administration
• Database administration
• Capacity planning and growth management
• Security and access administration

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Administration and Technology

THE SPECIALTY Administration and Technology covers those areas related to managing
the infrastructure and ensuring continuous operation of data warehousing
and BI solutions. Technology architecture, technology planning and
configuration, system and network administration, capacity planning,
growth management, database administration, system and network
administration, and access and security administration are essential skills
in this area.

TYPICAL JOB These skills are demanded for the roles of technical architect, technology
ROLES specialist, data warehouse systems administrator, and warehouse database
administrator, metadata administrator, and quality administrator. This
body of knowledge is valuable for those with business intelligence
customer service, support, and training responsibilities.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-13


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Job Roles and Specialties

Business Leadership & Data Analysis Data Administration


Analytics Management & Design Integration & Technology
Business Roles
Sponsor Essential Essential Valuable Valuable Useful
Business Subject Expert Essential Helpful Useful Useful Useful
Knowledge Worker Valuable Helpful Useful Useful Valuable
Data Owner Useful Useful Useful Valuable Helpful
Data Steward Useful Useful Essential Essential Helpful
Management Roles
Program Manager Essential Essential Valuable Valuable Valuable
Project Manager Useful Essential Valuable Valuable Valuable
Architecture Roles
Information Architect Essential Helpful Essential Valuable Valuable
Acquisition Architect Useful Helpful Valuable Essential Essential
Technical Architect Valuable Helpful Valuable Essential Essential
Requirements Analysis Roles
Business Requirements Analyst Essential Helpful Valuable Useful Useful
Source Data Analyst Useful Helpful Essential Valuable Essential
Design and Construction Roles
ETL Developer Useful Helpful Valuable Essential Valuable
Database Developer Useful Helpful Valuable Valuable Essential
Front-end/OLAP Developer Essential Helpful Valuable Valuable Valuable
Infrastructure Roles
Database Administrator Useful Helpful Essential Valuable Valuable
Systems Administrator Useful Helpful Valuable Valuable Essential
Metadata Administrator Valuable Useful Valuable Valuable Useful
Data Quality Administrator Valuable Useful Valuable Valuable Useful
Tool/Technology Specialist Useful Helpful Valuable Valuable Essential
Trainer Valuable Helpful Valuable Valuable Useful
Customer Support Specialist Valuable Helpful Valuable Valuable Valuable

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

CBIP Specialties
Job Roles and Specialties

BI ROLES The job roles for effective business intelligence typically divide into six
categories:

• Business Roles
• Management Roles
• Architecture Roles
• Requirements Analysis Roles
• Design and Construction Roles
• Infrastructure Roles

These roles describe groups of activities and responsibilities that are


generally assigned to an individual. Roles are not synonymous with job
titles. It is common, especially in smaller BI teams, for one individual to
assume multiple roles.

MAPPING ROLES Each role depends on BI disciplines – understanding of and experience


TO SPECIALTIES with a specific body of knowledge and skills – to be effective. Mapping
roles to disciplines helps to identify the specific skills needed to perform
in each role. The table on the facing page maps roles to disciplines using
the following classification:

• Understanding of the discipline is essential. These are critical skills for


the role.
• Understanding of the discipline provides valuable knowledge to be
highly effective. These are important skills for the role.
• Knowledge of the discipline is useful and may aid performance in the
role. These are valuable skills for the role.
• Knowledge of the discipline will be helpful to teamwork. These are
“nice to have” skills for the role.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-15


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Levels of Certification
Certificates vs. Meaningful Credentials

attendance education knowledge skill

Ideally documents Curriculum-based Curriculum-based


attendance of a
single class Aligns learning Aligns learning objectives with job roles &
objectives with job responsibilities
In reality, only roles &
shows that you responsibilities Knowledge and skills testing is an essential
were present when component
attendance was Immersion in a
taken body of study that Exam developers and training providers are
includes multiple separate
courses and independent organizations

Documents Exams are not specific to any vendors or products


extensive training in
a specific body of Examination occurs in a controlled environment
knowledge.
Recertification is periodically required

Exams results are more than scores –


they include performance profiles

Certifies knowledge and demonstrated ability to


apply it!

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Levels of Certification
Certificates vs. Meaningful Credentials

CERTIFICATION The primary purpose of certification is to create sustainable value for


individuals and for organizations. Individuals want credentials that bolster
confidence in their abilities and communicate a recognizable level of
expertise. Organizations want knowledgeable employees who can apply
their expertise to meet organizational goals.

KINDS OF The word “certified” has unfortunately been abused by some to become
CERTIFICATION synonymous with “certificate.” One well-known consulting group, for
example, suggests that you “become a certified metadata professional” by
attending a two-day class. It takes little reflection to realize that this
program doesn’t offer knowledge and skill certification, but a simple
certificate of attendance. The value of certification is proportional to the
amount of time and effort required to achieve that certification. Three
kinds of professional certificates/certification are common:
• Attendance-based certificates documenting attendance of a class.
• Education-based certification documenting immersion in a body of
study and completion of a planned learning process.
• Examination-based certification documenting demonstrated skills
and knowledge through formal testing.
Each level from attendance-based to examination-based is increasingly
demanding to achieve, with a corresponding increase of individual and
organizational value.

PRINCIPLES OF CBIP is a true examination-based certification program designed to offer


CBIP a meaningful and valuable credential. CBIP is founded on the following
principles:
• Certification is based on a curriculum that aligns learning objectives
with job roles and responsibilities
• Knowledge and skills testing are essential components
• Test developers and education providers are separate and independent
organizations
• The tests are challenging. They demand real study to pass them; there
is risk of failure
• The tests are not specific to any vendor or set of products
• Testing occurs in a controlled environment
• Recertification is required periodically
• Performance profiling and skills gap analysis are part of the exam
process.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-17


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Levels of Certification
Practitioner and Mastery Certification

knowledge skill

P R A C T I T I O N ER MASTERY
What does it take to
become certified? demonstrated demonstrated
ability to assume ability to lead a
leadership role BI team in projects
for BI projects & programs in
in area of specialty areas,
Can be achieved by education alone
Three exams at 50%+ correct specialization and to mentor
others in practice
of the specialty
Requires both depth of knowledge & substantial experience
Three exams at 70%+ correct

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Levels of Certification
Practitioner and Mastery Certification

PRACTITIONER Achieving the Practitioner Level requires passing of three exams within a
LEVEL particular specialty with a score of 50% or above. This credential is
awarded to those business intelligence professionals who demonstrate the
ability to assume leadership responsibilities in their area of specialization
at both project and program levels.

MASTERY LEVEL Achieving the Mastery Level requires passing of three exams within a
particular specialty with a score 70% or above. This credential is the
highest level of CBIP achievement, and is awarded to professionals who
demonstrate both the ability to effectively lead a team at the project and
program levels, and the skills to mentor others.

RE-TESTING The CBIP exams may be retaken after a one month waiting period.
During the waiting period the exam performance profile can be reviewed
and additional time spent in preparation.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-19


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

The CBIP Exams


What You Do

CBIP Specialties

Data Analysis &


& Management

Administration
& Technology
Leadership

Integration
Business
Analytics

Design

Data
Core Exam

Data Warehousing Exam


ICCP Examinations

Management Exam

Business Analytics Exam

Data Management Exam

Systems Development Exam 1

Systems Security Exam 2

Database Administration Exam 2

1
TDWI and ICCP will collaborate to create an exam specific to Data Integration. Once that exam is proven it
will replace the Systems Development Exam for this specialty.
2
Either the Systems Security Exam or the Database Administration Exam may be used to satisfy the third
exam requirement for the Administration and Technology specialty. TDWI and ICCP will collaborate to create
a Systems Administration Exam. Once that exam is proven it will replace both of the current exam choices
for this specialty.

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

The CBIP Exams


What You Do

CBIP APPLICATION Every CBIP applicant must complete a CBIP application form. The
application form is available for download on the CBIP Web site
(www.cbipro.com) and may be submitted to TDWI at any time. It is
reviewed for completeness and kept on file until the examination time. An
application must be completed before taking the exams.

TAKE EXAMS The table on the facing page illustrates the exams that are required for
each CBIP specialty. Every specialty requires three exams – the IT Core
Exam, the Data Warehousing Exam, and one exam unique to the
specialty. The self-inventory completed earlier will prove helpful in
choosing those specialties and exams where you have the highest
probability of success.

All exams are taken in a controlled and proctored environment. In


addition to group examination opportunities (such as may be offered after
this class) TDWI can arrange examination sessions to meet your timing
and location needs.

RECERTIFY Recertification is necessary to maintain current knowledge and skills in


the changing fields of business intelligence and data warehousing.

A CBIP credential is valid for a period of three years from the issue date
and must be renewed prior to expiration and during each subsequent 3
year period. Various types of professional development may be used to
satisfy the renewal requirements: self-study, retaking exams, taking
continuing education courses within your specialty area, and participating
in education programs by designing or teaching courses. Full or partial
renewal credit can be earned by adding additional specialties to a CBIP
certificate. Credit may also be earned by submitting questions for
possible inclusion in CBIP related material.

120 contact hours of appropriate activities must be documented during the


three-year period to renew your certification.

PAY FEES There is a fee associated with every exam that is taken. Fee payment is
required at the time of examination unless other payment arrangements
have been agreed upon prior to the exam session. Additionally, there is an
annual recertification fee. Fees are not printed here because occasional
price changes would make this book inaccurate.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-21


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

The CBIP Exams


What TDWI Does

Examination Services

Develop Update and Provide Score Exams


and Maintain Exam and Keep
Test Exams Exams Software Exam Records

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

The CBIP Exams


What TDWI Does

CBIP PROGRAM TDWI is responsible for all aspects of CBIP program administration from
ADMINISTRATION providing preparatory education, through examination, to issuing of
certificates and verification of CBIP status. Examination services and
issuing of certificates require services of the ICCP. TDWI works directly
with ICCP. You – the customer – work directly with TDWI. From an
examinee perspective, ICCP services are “in the background.”

MANAGES THE TDWI is responsible for all aspects of CBIP program management from
CBIP PROGRAM conception through customer service and support. TDWI works
cooperatively with ICCP to provide examination opportunities and to
continuously update and improve the exams.

THE ROLE OF ICCP The CBIP program uses the ICCP’s examination services to support some
of the principles of CBIP described in this module. External examination
services support the CBIP program’s need for:

• Knowledge and skills testing


• Separation of examiners from educators
• Vendor-neutral examination
• Controlled testing
• Performance Profiling

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-23


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

The CBIP Exams


What You Get

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

The CBIP Exams


What You Get

PROFESSIONAL The obvious benefits of CBIP are professional designation and


DESIGNATION AND credentialing, and the value that they bring to you individually and to
your organization. Credentials are most visible, however, when they take
CREDENTIALS
on a tangible form.

LOGO USAGE Once you certify, you will receive the logo usage guidelines along with a
GUIDELINES variety of logo designs and formats. Adhering to the guidelines helps
maintain the integrity of your certification and ensures that credentials are
not misrepresented.

FOR THE Upon satisfaction of CBIP requirements, each individual receives:


INDIVIDUAL • Authorization to use the CBIP designation professionally. The
following are examples of approved formats.
Jennifer L. Hay, CBIP
Jennifer L. Hay, CBIP (Certified by TDWI)
Jennifer L. Hay, CBIP

• One CBIP certificate for each specialty achieved, delivered in a


presentation folder. Each certificate includes your full name, the
specialty, level of certification, certification number, issue date, and
expiration date.
• A letter describing your certification which can be included with a
resume, job application, consulting proposal, or other uses where
evidence of certification is valuable. The certification letter presents
evidence of certification in a more appealing form than photocopies
of certificates. The letter is provided both in printed and electronic
(PDF) formats.
• CBIP logos in electronic format (EPS) in a variety of forms – with
and without specialty and colored or black-and-white – with
authorization to use them on business cards, resumes, and letterhead.

FOR THE Consulting groups and other organizations who certify a significant
ORGANIZATION number of people may be able to use CBIP logos in marketing collateral
and on web sites. Using the CBIP logos in this way requires that a sample
be submitted to TDWI for approval. Usage guidelines for the logos are
provided upon request.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 1-25


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

1-26 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP About the Exams

Module 2
About the Exams

Topic Page
Exam Description 2-2

Testing Techniques 2-4

Exam Demonstration 2-8

2-1
An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Exam Description
Body of Knowledge Based

Core Exam:
Information Technology Skills
Organizational and Professional Skills
Strategic Organizational Systems Development

Data Warehousing Exam:


Data Warehousing Function
Data Warehouse Infrastructure
Data Warehousing Analysis and Design
Data Acquisition and Cleansing
Data Warehouse Implementation & Operation

Management Exam:
General Management & Organizational Concepts
Project Management
Information Systems Management

Business Analytics Exam:


Business Intelligence Concepts & Roles
Business Management Perspectives
Analytics Techniques and Usage
Business Intelligence / Decision Support Systems

Data Management Exam:


Data Management Function
Data & Metadata Infrastructures
Data Analysis & Modeling
Data/Metadata Infrastructure Management
Information Quality Management

Systems Development Exam:


Systems Analysis
Systems Design & Implementation
The Systems Analyst as a Professional

Systems Security Exam:


Risk Assessment
Recovery from Information Service Interruptions
Information & System Security
Security in System Design
Security Management

Database Administration Exam:


Database Administration Function
Database Management (DBMS) Systems Environment
Database Design
Database Operation
SQL Considerations

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Exam Description
Body of Knowledge Based

DEFINITION Each of the exams in the CBIP program is based upon a specific Body of
Knowledge (BOK) that includes concepts, principles, processes,
applications, and best practices used in each of the areas. Using the BOK,
a three tier outline was created to provide a detailed and standardized
structure for the Body of Knowledge.

USING THE BODY A detailed outline for each exam is available in the CBIP Examinations
OF KNOWLEDGE Guide, which will be provided to you.

To prepare for testing, it is recommended that you review the exam


outline and

1) check off those items where you have sufficient knowledge and
experience
2) highlight those items or groups of items where you don't have the
depth of understanding to apply your knowledge and experience
3) use research tools such as the internet or industry publications to
expand your knowledge
4) use resources such as others in IT to discuss concepts and principles
and their application

LEVELS OF Each of the questions in the exam tests against different levels of
KNOWLEDGE knowledge and ability to apply that knowledge:

• Recognition: The ability to name a concept, fact, or idea and


recall information about it.
• Discrimination: The ability to distinguish between similar
concepts, ideas, and facts.
• Understanding: The ability to know what a concept, fact, or idea
means in sufficient depth to describe what it does and does not
include.
• Applications: The ability to use concepts, facts, and ideas in a
variety of situations and to include them when creating solutions
to business or information systems needs.
• Evaluation: The ability to assess the quality of a system, product,
or solution on the basis of related concepts, ideas, and facts.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 2-3


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Testing Techniques
Exam Strategy

YOUR
STYLE

TIME QUESTIONS
(90 min) (110 total)

changing answers?

skipping questions?

going back if you


have time?

keeping notes?

Answer one question every 49 seconds on average

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Testing Techniques
Exam Strategy

MANAGING YOUR Each exam contains 110 questions and you are 90 minutes to complete it.
TIME While taking the exam you will find the number of unanswered questions
in the bottom right hand corner.

Included in each exam are 10 questions which are being used for
evaluation purposes. These questions will not be identified so if you
encounter any oddly questions assume they are part of the evaluation set
and move on with your testing. Don't waste time worrying about
individual questions.

EXAM FORMAT The exams use straight line testing which means that each question is
completely independent of the others, and incorrectly answering a
question does not affect which upcoming questions are displayed.

YOUR STYLE OF If you are out of practice taking exams, you should consider these
TESTING strategies which have proved to be effective for others.

Changing answers: Everyone has their own thoughts as to whether it's


effective to change an answer. Sometimes going through an exam will
reveal answers to other questions. If you feel strongly that the answer
should be changed then do so - otherwise you will waste time thinking
about it.

Skipping questions: When you are testing, the check mark in the top
center of your screen will not turn red until you have answered each of
the questions. Once you run out of time, the check mark will turn red
whether or not you have answered all the questions.

Keeping notes: You will be provided with several pieces of blank paper
for note taking.

Going back if you have time: You will receive a 5 minute and a 15
minute warning so you can allocate time to review the questions if you so
wish.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 2-5


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Testing Techniques
Question Strategy

To have a high level of correctness, data exhibits all of the following


qualities EXCEPT
a) completeness negatives can include
b) accuracy
c) consistency
more than ‘no’ or ‘not’
d) granularity

Which of the following statements is true about data integrity?


a) it is always determined by assertions about the structure
of the data
b) it is mostly about foreign key references absolutes can
c) it is enforced through DBMS constraints be in the question
d) it is difficult to measure or the answer

Low latency data means


a) an operational data store (ODS) easy, definitional
b) just-in-time data loads question
c) near real-time data
d) daily or more frequent ETL processes

Which is LEAST likely to need attention when acquiring warehouse data


from log files?
a) log file size
b) log file retention
for difficult questions
c) restores, rollbacks, and reruns parse it into phrases
d) completeness of log files

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TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Testing Techniques
Question Strategy

NEGATIVES These types of questions contain 'No', 'Not', and 'Except', and require a
different thought process. Pay particular attention to each of the potential
answers and remember that you are looking for true statements.

ABSOLUTES When a question contains words such as 'every', 'always', 'none', and
'only' it should be carefully reviewed since it means that all parts of the
answer cannot be disputed.

GUESSING There are no penalties for guessing so it is better to take a good guess
than to leave a question blank.

EASY VS Some of the questions are going to be easy but even if this is the case,
DIFFICULT answer each BEFORE you review the possible answers. Don't skim over
any of the answers since some may be more correct than others.
QUESTIONS
Sometimes the question is just easy and quickly answering it will give
you extra time on the more difficult questions.

READING VS There are two strategies for dealing with questions where an immediate
MISREADING answer doesn't seem apparent; the true/false test and parsing the question
and answers.

True/Fast Test: You will be provided with scratch paper so starting with
the first answer write down a 'T' or 'F'. Go through the same process for
each of the answers. Then review the results and pick the best answer
which may or may not appear to be the complete correct one. You need to
pick the best choice amongst the alternatives.

Parsing the question and possible answers: If the answer doesn't seem
obvious try parsing into different phrases.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 2-7


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Exam Demonstration
What to Expect

2-8 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP An Overview of CBIP

Exam Demonstration
What to Expect

EXAM CD The software provided on the CD in the back of the CBIP Examinations
Guide is the same software used for the actual exams with two
exceptions. When scoring the exam the correct answer for each question
will not show and the calculator will not work.

LIVE DEMO The instructor will demo one of the sample exams so that you can follow
his/her strategy for answering exams.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 2-9


An Overview of CBIP TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

2-10 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP The Exam Body of Knowledge

Module 3
The Exam Body of Knowledge

The body of knowledge is specific to each individual


exam and may be periodically updated. For this review
refer to the exam guide pages or handout as directed
by your instructor.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 3-1


The Exam Body of Knowledge TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

3-2 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP Exam Practice

Module 4
Exam Practice

The sample questions are specific to each individual exam


and may be periodically updated. For this review refer to
the material as directed by your instructor.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 4-1


Exam Practice TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

4-2 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP Getting Ready for Exams

Module 5
Getting Ready for Exams

Topic Page
Study Resources 5-2

Study Activities 5-4

© The Data Warehousing Institute 5-1


Getting Ready for Exams TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Study Resources
Courses

EDUCATION

TDWI Data Modeling:


Data Analysis and Design for BI and Data Warehousing Systems

© TDWI:The Data Warehousing Institute

5-2 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP Getting Ready for Exams

Study Resources
Courses

FILLING THE Individual and stand-alone courses are an effective way to fill knowledge
KNOWLEDGE gaps and to get a quick refresher when your knowledge is somewhat out-
of-date. When you’re comfortable with most of the body of knowledge
GAPS
for an exam, but identify a few specific areas where your knowledge falls
short, then consider taking a class. TDWI offers many courses related to
business intelligence and data warehousing.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 5-3


Getting Ready for Exams TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

Study Activities
Self Study

• books
• newsletters
• websites
• online courses
• memberships
• colleagues & peers

5-4 © The Data Warehousing Institute


TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP Getting Ready for Exams

Study Activities
Self-Study

STAYING CURRENT Keeping your knowledge and skills up-to-date is particularly challenging
in business intelligence. Both technology business management concepts
change rapidly. Self study – both concentrated in preparation for exams
and continuous as a key element of professional development – is an
effective way to keep pace with continuous change. Books, websites,
newsletters, member organizations, and many other resources can readily
become part of your continuous learning plan.

The specific reading list varies by exam and the instructor will provide
the relevant list.

© The Data Warehousing Institute 5-5


Getting Ready for Exams TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

5-6 © The Data Warehousing Institute


COURSE EVALUATION FORM TDWI Education
Your evaluation makes a difference! TDWI uses
course evaluations in preparation for future events.

Course Location:

Course Title: TDWI Exam Preparation for CBIP

5 = Excellent 4 = Good 3 = Average 2 = Fair 1 = Poor (see reverse for criterion descriptions)

Instructor Name:

Teaching & Presentation Skills 5 4 3 2 1

Course Content 5 4 3 2 1

Class Management Skills 5 4 3 2 1

Course Book & Handouts 5 4 3 2 1

Objectivity (Sales Pitch Free) 5 4 3 2 1

1. What change(s) in the course would you suggest to improve its value to you?

2. What is the business value of this course? (Why is the topic important to you and your company? How will this course help
you succeed?)

3. How many years of data warehousing and/or business intelligence experience do you have?

4. Other comments:

5. May we quote your comment(s) in our promotions for educational events? a) Yes b) No
Name:

Company:
COURSE EVALUATION FORM

TDWI EXCLUSIVE! Sales Pitch Free Zones


Have you ever been in a presentation that sounded more like a “sales pitch” than anything else? You’ll notice
that TDWI’s evaluation forms let you evaluate the objectivity of an instructor.

EVALUATION FORMS—THE FACTS


Do evaluation forms impact instructors? Yes!!
1. TDWI chooses instructors based on the highest standards. Your evaluations help us to ensure the continued
excellence of our faculty.

2. Your comments and feedback help our instructors continually improve their courses.

EVALUATION METRICS
Teaching and Presentation Skills. How well does the instructor explain and illustrate difficult concepts? Does the
instructor organize and present information in a logical way that facilitates comprehension? Does the instructor use
exercises, handouts, or audio/visual displays to illustrate or reinforce concepts?

Course Content. Does the content taught by the instructor match the course description? Does the course offer
relevant content at the appropriate level? Does the course material flow logically from topic to topic? Does the course
provide information that is or will be relevant to your job?

Class Management Skills. How well does the instructor handle questions from the audience? Does the instructor
maintain a reasonable pace for the content and stick to the schedule? How well does the instructor deal with
unforeseen problems with A/V, temperature, lighting, and so on?

Course Book and Handouts. Is the course book a valuable reference tool, or merely a set of PowerPoint slides? Does
the instructor jam too much on a single slide? Are the graphics legible? Does the instructor make extensive use of the
Notes section to annotate the slides or provide additional, relevant information?

Objectivity. Does the instructor show a bias toward any product or solution? Is the instructor a credible source of
reliable information about products, trends, and issues? Does the instructor inappropriately sell himself/herself or
company as a potential service provider? Does the instructor collect business cards or conduct raffles during class
time for marketing purposes?
TRAIN YOUR WHOLE TEAM.
Did you find this course valuable? TDWI can bring this
course—and many others—onsite to your workplace.

TDWI Onsite Education


World-Class Business Intelligence and Data Warehousing Education
Brought to Your Workplace

Put TDWI’s expertise TDWI Onsite includes:


to work for you • Learning needs assessment and tailored
TDWI Onsite delivers the highest quality business training plans
intelligence and data warehousing education to your • Pre-class discussion with a TDWI-certified
location. TDWI offers onsite training for all levels in your instructor to ensure content is aligned with
organization, so everyone involved in a project shares your training objectives
a common knowledge base and learns in support of
• Instructor-led training at your workplace or
the same corporate objectives. Every TDWI Onsite
location of your choosing
course is rich with business and technical concepts
as well as techniques that are proven in practice. And • All course materials
every TDWI instructor is a business intelligence or data
warehousing practitioner with real-world experience.

Benefits More information


• Cost-Effective—Eliminate travel-related expenses For more information about this course and
and get more for your training dollar other courses that can be brought onsite to
• High-Impact—Advance project goals by giving your your workplace, contact:
team an equivalent understanding of core concepts Yvonne M. Baho
• Convenient—Schedule training when it best Director, Onsite Education
accommodates your workload T 978.582.7105
• Flexible—Tailor training to your specific needs and F 978.582.0184
incorporate organization-specific information E ybaho@tdwi.org

www.tdwi.org/onsite

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