This is an exciting new approach to dimensional data warehouse design, invented by the author. This how-to guide shows you how a revolutionary new approach to dimensional modeling invented by the author can be used throughout the data warehouse analysis and design phases to improve communication between IT and business users - and consequently - produce better results. Featuring proven techniques devised by the author, this book introduces Business Event Analysis and Modeling (BEAM), a powerful, yet simple, technique for modeling directly with business users. You'll learn how to run facilitated BEAM sessions with users to create consensus on data definitions and a sense of business ownership of the data warehouse design. It demonstrates how to use Business Event Analysis and Modeling (BEAM) to readily capture the 5W1H combinations that represent the unique business events of any organization. It presents common reusable modeling techniques for handling the complexities of people and groups (the 'who'), products and services (the 'what'), geography (the 'where') for each dimension type. It offers extensive, detailed examples for translating each BEAM model into a dimensional (star schema) model. The companion website will include all sample models, document templates, and SQL code examples. These proven techniques will help you accomplish your end goal: ensuring that the data warehouse design meet the real needs of users.