Depending on the structure of the data source, an attribute represents a column (relational database structure) or a field (flat file or COBOL structure). Rows within a data source are defined by attributes, which identify specific data values within the row. The repository uniquely identifies each attribute with a reference number, allowing for attributes with duplicate names to exist in the same data source.
Attribute metdata is available when you open a data source, as follows:
- For a single attribute: Click Attribute Details.
- For all attributes in a data source: Click the Attribute Summary tab.
Examining attribute metadata helps you understand your data structure. For example, after you first add a data source, check the number of attributes in the data source to confirm all expected data was loaded (or linked to). Measure the structure of an attribute by viewing Minimum Length and Maximum Length information. Gain more structure insight viewing the number of metaphones, patterns, masks, and soundexes.