Chapter 6: Standardizing Coding Using SAS Arrays

In this chapter, we will revisit SAS arrays and consider why they are usually necessary in extract, transform, and load (ETL) when processing code for a SAS data warehouse. First, we will go over examples of where arrays can be useful and demonstrate creating a set of variables as an output array. We'll do this by using a set of native variables as an input array.

Next, we'll go over when we should add conditions to an array, as well as how array processing changes when conditions are added. Arrays are often used when creating index variables, so a discussion will be included about factors for SAS data warehouse managers to consider when choosing to serve up index variables or components for their formulas in the SAS data warehouse.

We will then discuss how array processing is documented in a SAS data warehouse, before ending this chapter with a summary of limitations imposed by using SAS arrays, including limitations...