Source definitions.

Detailed descriptions of database objects (tables, views, and synonyms), flat files, XML files, or COBOL files that provide source data. For example, a source definition might be the complete structure of the EMPLOYEES table, including the table name, column names and datatypes, and any constraints applied to these columns, such as NOT NULL or PRIMARY KEY. Use the Source Analyzer tool to import and create source definitions.

Target definitions.

Detailed descriptions for database objects, flat files, or XML files to receive transformed data. During a session, the Integration Service writes the transformed data to targets. Use the Target Designer tool to import or create target definitions.

Transformations.

A transformation generates, modifies, or passes data through ports that you connect in a mapping or mapplet. When you build a mapping or mapplet, you add transformations and configure them to handle data according to your business purpose.

Reusable transformations.

You can design a transformation that you can reuse in multiple mappings or mapplets within a folder, a repository, or a repository domain. Rather than recreate the same transformation each time, you can make the transformation reusable and add instances of the transformation to individual mappings or mapplets. Use the Transformation Developer tool to create reusable transformations.

Mappings.

A mapping specifies how to move and transform data from sources to targets. Mappings include source and target definitions and transformations. Transformations describe how the Integration Service transforms data. Mappings can also include shortcuts, reusable transformations, and mapplets. Use the Mapping Designer tool to create mappings.

Mapplets.

You can design a mapplet to contain sets of transformation logic to be reused in multiple mappings within a folder, a repository, or a repository domain. Rather than recreate the same set of transformations each time, you can create a mapplet containing the transformations and then add instances of the mapplet to individual mappings. Use the Mapplet Designer tool to create mapplets.

User-defined functions.

You can create user-defined functions using the PowerCenter transformation language. Create user-defined functions to reuse expression logic and build complex expressions. User-defined functions are available to other users in a repository.

Multi-dimensional metadata.

Multi-dimensional metadata refers to the logical organization of data used for analysis in OLAP applications. Dimensions and cubes are most often used by end users of OLAP applications. Use the Target Designer tool to create dimensions and cubes.