Implementation of the Business Objects Edge BI Package at Libri
In a successful pilot project, Mind System has implemented Business Objects (BO) tools at Libri, enabling real-time monitoring of daily sales with just a few parameters queried from the database. The demonstration highlighted the additional analytical capabilities and channels opened up by the new business intelligence products, including not only web queries but also the use of Business Objects Explorer’s complex data analysis tools and its iPhone-compatible version. Following the presentation, Libri decided to deploy the Business Objects Edge BI package, which consists of five products and offers an excellent cost-benefit ratio for supporting their analytics.
The project is notable for its use of Sybase replication to create a central “quasi” online database between the stores and the headquarters. This data is replicated into a Sybase IQ database, creating a real-time data warehouse containing all of Libri’s sales data. The system provides detailed insights, such as which bestseller was purchased at which store and register within a specific quarter-hour period. This solution introduces a revolutionary level of depth for both customer loyalty and publisher analyses. In addition to sales data, other information from the SAP system, such as accounting and financial data, is also integrated into the data warehouse. The project’s significance is underscored by SAP’s recent announcement of its acquisition of Sybase, a company renowned for its expertise in business analytics.
The project is divided into two phases. The first phase involves comprehensive, large-scale conceptual planning to lay out a complete vision, primarily to facilitate future expansions. The second phase focuses on preparing sales analysis data and reports, which will be completed in just a few weeks. This allows Libri to immediately begin using the data warehouse, even as further expansions are underway. Future plans include incremental expansion of the data warehouse to ensure continuous functionality enhancements.