Loops and Contexts

Loops occur when there are two different paths to accomplish one join and when those joins create a circular reference between three or more tables. In the following data foundation, PRODUCT_PROMOTION_FACTS and CALENDAR_YEAR_LOOKUP have been added. If users want to analyze articles versus time, there are now two join paths.

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The query engine does not know which path to take: the one via SHOP_FACTS or the one via PRODUCT_PROMOTION_FACTS. Is the business question “What are sales by product and period?” or “What are the promotions by product and period?”

The circular appearance of these four joins is a loop, which can give undesired ...

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