Harmony Software Inc has released a suite of data models which the San Mateo, California-based company claims can reduce the implementation time for data marts and analytical applications, such as software that interprets customer service data. The suite is made up of four basic components: data models; enterprise data models; business area models; and dimension models, all of which the company says be implemented and operational within an hour. The models are intended for use by developers as an architectural blueprint for mapping data elements and inter-relationships needed to build data marts and analytical software. The data models are built in a case tool, which can then convert them into a database schema. To integrate the models into an existing architecture, current data elements can be mapped to the models and loaded into the respective tables. The enterprise data model is aimed towards companies looking to organize strategic data enterprise-wide in datawarehousing areas. The business area models deal with customer and shipping and other supply-side information. The dimension models are based on the business area models and are intended to keep the data across each model consistent. For implementation requirements, Harmony has partnered with KPMG and Ernst & Young and is also in the process of establishing relationships with ‘second tier’ consulting firms. A spokesperson for the company said that the average cost of the data model implementation varies depending on scope of implementation, the company suggest targeting 50% of purchase price of the models for mapping data. The company also has technology partnerships with Microsoft Corp, Oracle Corp, SAP and Stanford University. The venture-funded company was founded in 1996 with the aim of introducing a business performance management (BPM) application. The company used the data model suite to build its BPM application, which will be available in the first quarter of 1999, and has now made the models available separately. Each model is available now, priced between $50,000 to $150,000, depending on specification.
