The semantic layer is a term used to describe the data model that takes multiple enterprise data source models and combines them into one unified model for the business. It traditionally is built in the data warehouse and used by reporting tools. Companies have been using semantic layers to manage data since the early 1990s.
Semantic Layer Advantages
- Reduces complexity
- Makes it easier to find information for business users
- Facilitates self-serve reporting
- Improve aggregated query performance
Semantic Layer Disadvantages
- Requires regular maintenance