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The semantic layer stores curated metrics, dimensions, and entities so every BI tool and SQL client asks the same questions the same way. You define grain, aggregation rules, and friendly names once, then expose them to analysts through Planasonix.

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Metrics catalog

Create entries such as net_revenue, active_subscribers, or churn_rate with:
  • Definition – SQL or declarative expression referencing approved fact and dimension tables
  • Grain – Per day, per account, per subscription, etc.
  • Constraints – Filters that must always apply (exclude test tenants, internal accounts)
  • Certification – Steward approval for executive use
Version metrics when definitions change; dashboards pin to versions until owners accept updates.
Keep metric names business-stable even when underlying table names churn; update mappings in the semantic layer instead of renaming metrics constantly.

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Semantic definitions

Dimensions describe who, what, where, and when (product line, region, campaign). Entities map keys across facts (customer_id bridges orders and support tickets). Document slowly changing dimensions explicitly so analysts know which history version they query.
Define allowed hierarchies (region → country → city) so self-serve tools expose consistent drill-downs.
Row-level security rules in the semantic layer should mirror warehouse entitlements; never widen access accidentally through friendly views.

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JDBC access

BI tools that speak JDBC can connect to Planasonix’s semantic JDBC endpoint (when enabled for your tenant) and issue SQL against published models. The driver translates requests to governed queries against your warehouse connection profile.
Tableau, Power BI, Looker (via database connections), and Excel Power Query commonly use JDBC/ODBC bridges—verify exact support with your CS engineer during onboarding.
JDBC credentials are as sensitive as warehouse passwords. Store them in your vault and rotate on the same schedule as database keys.

Data catalog

Discover physical tables behind semantic models.

Impact analysis

See downstream BI assets when metrics change.