Summary

This chapter presented an overview of how array processing is used in a SAS data warehouse for ETL, and provided context for the challenges and decisions that SAS data managers face when making choices about array processing in a SAS data warehouse. First, we went over scenarios where arrays are useful in processing, and we created flags and grouped variables based on native variables using arrays inside a data step. We discussed how these variables can become part of index variables, as well as issues to consider when serving up index variables or their components in the SAS data warehouse.

Because arrays are important to use in SAS processing to improve processing efficiency, we went over ways to build efficient array code through renaming variables, as well as through using conditions. Examples were provided about ways to document array usage for both internal and external stakeholders. Finally, we reviewed the limitations imposed by the constraints around variable naming...