Data Integrator

We are presently working on integration of heterogeneous systems. I was searching for a tool which will meet our requirements. Of course, the entire work can be done in SQLLoader too. But still I had to satisfy myself that SQLLOADER is THE answer.
One of the tools I came across was the Oracle Data Integrator.
This appears to be a regular ETL tool with oracle-specific features built-in. I have decided to explore further about this product.
Features I like about this product (of course I would probably find many of the features in the competitors too, But still it is worth exploring):

• Automatic code generation (reduces learning curve)
• User/Developer specifies the rules to apply to the integration processes.
• Hooks to SOA
  
• Library of Knowledge Modules (including one for Salesforce.com)

Getting the right data in the right place at the right time is the key to a successful data integration strategy. Are I going have a hourly/periodic updates from the source; if so, how complex will it be to maintain the program generated?
Will be posting more details later.

Thought of the day

"If you want to be irreplaceable, you have to be different."
Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel

Joined Fujitsu Consulting

Joined Fujitsu Consulting as a Project Lead. This involves implementing Oracle Time and Labor and Internet Expenses. I will also be using Macroscope (a Fujitsu equivalent of Oracle AIM, but on PMI Methodology).
I am very excited to work in this project.

BI Publisher (Formerly Known as XML Publisher)

Does BI Publisher (XML Publisher) support Microsoft Word-XML-Document format as template ?

Solution

BI Publisher (XML Publisher) supports the following formats only:

1. XSL-FO
2. PDF template
3. RTF template

The Word-XML-Document is not included in the supported template formats.
BI Publisher (XML Publisher) is using RTF and XSL-FO standards,
where PDF and RTF templates are converted in loading to XSL-FO.
So it is advisable to follow the supported features to avoid any problems that may be caused from Word 2003 conversion to XML Template.

• BI Publisher Desktop 10.1.3.2.1/5.6.3 can be downloaded from edelivery.oracle.com [Oracle BI Publisher Desktop 10.1.3.2.1 for Microsoft Windows (CD) B42918-01] or from MetaLink Patch 5887917 ORACLE XML PUBLISHER DESKTOP PATCH 5.6.3.
• BI Publisher available in EBusiness Suite, PeopleSoft, Siebel(OBIEE) or Standalone. New Version 10.1.3.2 / 5.6.3 depending upon where the product is installed, the two versions refer to the same product.

more on this later.

Upglo - Helping Legal Immigrants

Linda Hearne, a Volunteer at Upwardly Global had in the past mentored a Doctor from Afghanistan. The Doctor has moved 3 times and start anew - I can understand - we have moved 8 times in US alone, not to mention India.
Reproduced a part of the article below, to read the full article, click here.
Quote:
I am reminded anew of her courage and fierce determination. M. passed the rigorous medical entrance exam at 15 and daily risked her safety to attend Kabul University's School of Medicine. She graduated only weeks before the Taliban captured Kabul in 1996 and ended women's access to formal education. M. and her family fled back and forth to Pakistan twice before moving to the U.S.; this is the third time they've had to start their lives anew.

End Quote