Data validation is the process of verifying the accuracy and completeness of data integration operations such as the migration or replication of data. Use Informatica Data Validation Option to create repeatable tests that validate PowerCenter mapping data.
Use Data Validation Option to test large volumes of data in heterogeneous environments. You can create a test that validates data in one or more data sources. You might create a test against one data source to verify the number of unique IDs in a table. You might create a test between two data sources to test referential integrity, such as verifying that every product in a fact table is also in the dimension table. You can also create views on one or more data sources to perform more complex tests.
Use the Data Validation Client to configure validation tests. When you create a test, you configure the conditions through an Expression Editor. After you run the test, you can view the testing summary in the client tool and you can view the result data in reports.
The following types of validation tests are common tests that you might perform on mapping data:
Regression testing
Validate data during development testing to ensure that updates to mapping logic do not introduce regressions. Perform the validation between the development target and the testing target.
Production validation
Validate data after you move from development to production. Perform the validation between the target systems to verify consistency.
Upgrade validation
Validate data after you upgrade the Informatica platform version. Perform the validation between the target systems to verify consistency.
Migration validation
Validate data after you migrate data. Perform the validation between the source and target to verify that the target contains the data and values expected from the integration process.
A data validation test can validate data, but it cannot validate the logic that you use to transform or migrate data. A data validation test can identify inconsistencies in data, but it cannot identify the source of the inconsistencies.