Data integration is always a complex task, made even more so when dealing with legacy or mainframe data sources. Using SSIS goes some way to simplifying the task; however SSIS does not do everything. We have seen, for example, that when used in conjunction with a strategic CDC solution many additional benefits can be gleaned. What additional criteria should therefore be evaluated when choosing a CDC solution for use with SSIS?

Strategic change data capture (CDC) technology should be a comprehensive solution that addresses many business requirements and can be applied to solve a variety of real time and on-demand initiatives that can substantially improve return on investment.

Traditionally, ETL processes run on a periodic basis (weekly, daily), and bulk transfer source data to a target data source (the data warehouse). However, in today’s fast moving world, where immediacy of information is no longer nice-to-have but is becoming absolutely critical for business competitiveness and survival, historical data is no longer enough.

Business Intelligence (BI) systems are now a core part of any corporate IT department, providing the business with key information, improving decision making and supporting day-to-day operations.