Extract, Transform, Load (ETL)

Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) is a process that is used to move data from various sources into a single database, data store, data warehouse or data lake so it can be used for reporting, analysis, and business intelligence. The ‘Extract’ part involves taking data from all kinds of different systems and collecting it together. ‘Transform’ is about cleaning that data and changing it into a format that matches the way the business needs to use it. Finally, ‘Load’ is when this prepared data is put into its new home where it can be accessed and analyzed.

ETL is like moving into a new house. First, you pack up items from all around your old house (extract), then you might sort them out or put them in new boxes so they fit better in the new space (transform), and finally, you move all your boxes into the new house and unpack them (load).

For businesses, the ETL process is crucial because it ensures that data is consistent, organized, and ready to be looked at in reports or dashboards. Without ETL, you could have a mess of mismatched data that’s hard to make sense of, like having boxes full of mixed-up belongings scattered around your new house. ETL helps keep everything tidy and usable, which makes it easier to uncover valuable insights that can help a business grow and succeed.