1.2 Query vs. Model vs. Worksheet
There are three principal ways to retrieve data from a datasource:
• Query: A query is a specific request for data from the datasource (i.e., a request for specific columns and rows), typically written in the SQL language. Style Studio provides a wizard to make query creation easy. See Independent Query in Data Modeling for information on how to create a query.
• Data Model: A data model provides an all-encompassing representation of your data, a view into your database suitable for business users. Because a data model is not a specific request for data, but rather a model of your database schema, it is much more flexible than a query. See Getting Started With Data Models for an example.
• Data Worksheet: A Data Worksheet has many roles, but is most often used to graphically build complex queries and mash-up data from different data sources. See Getting Started with Data Mash-Up for more information.
The table below highlights the advantages and disadvantages of these different approaches.
Feature |
Query |
data Model |
Data Worksheet |
Mash up data from different data sources |
No |
No |
Yes |
Quick to create |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Create complex queries |
Partially (via SQL string) |
Partially (via SQL string) |
Yes |
Facilitate self-service (see below) |
No |
Yes |
Partially |
Accept SQL string |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Import data from non-datasource |
No |
No |
Yes |
Available for non-relational databases |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Self-service refers to the ability of an end-user to make their own data selections. Queries and Data Worksheets are limited in this regard, because they provide access only to the fields that they were originally designed to provide (although, of course, a user can choose among those fields). Because a data model provides a broader view into the entire database schema, it gives the user much more flexibility in selecting data and greatly enhances self-service.
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