Accurately modeled and documented metadata is the foundation of a successful performance management implementation. Cognos Framework Manager serves as the metadata layer for the Cognos deployment. It is critical to leverage the metadata attributes of the various elements to improve the end user experience. Once captured, the value of these attributes should be demonstrated across the organization.
MetaManager allows administrators to simplify many of the complexities associated with metadata, security and data management, both at the modeling and user level. The product modules are designed to help administrators manage and maintain metadata, perform impact analysis of these modifications on end user content, and automatically resolve any issues that may occur from the impact analysis. As well, administrators can generate detailed audit trail documentation with a click of a button, perform full or selectable content backups and restores, and revert changes back to previous state at any time.
Benefits
As an extension of Framework Manager and ReportNet or Cognos 8, MetaManager provides functionality that automates many of the manual processes in a Cognos deployment (Security, Distribution, Standardization, Documentation, Validation and Backup & Recovery).
In addition to automating the impact of changes to the underlying data foundation, MetaManager enables administrators to carry forward the value of the data to end users in an automated fashion.
By carrying details about the metadata (such as sources of query items and descriptions) through to end user reports, business users gain insight about the information presented to them.
With thorough documentation of Framework Manager models and the entire content store (including report specs, security, and schedules), MetaManager enables detailed record keeping and audit trails of the entire Cognos environment.
Features
Excel-like user interface for making changes and updates to Framework Manager object properties (including simple and advanced search capabilities).
Automate report validation when changes to the underlying packages are made.
Automatically apply Framework Manager model changes to impacted reports.
Carry metadata through to end-user reports in the form of screen tips.
Find and replace text within selectable report objects.
Standardize the look and feel of existing reports with one click easily distribute custom portal tabs to any role, group or user
Secure packages, folders, reports and other objects in one simple step
Document the contents of Framework Manager models and the content store in PDF, XLS, TXT or HTML.
Full backup and restore capabilities on selected objects in the content store. Restoration can be done to the same location or any location in any content store.
Revert any change back to its previous state.
Architecture
MetaManager is a client application that runs on any Windows platform supported by Cognos (e.g., XP, 2000, 2003). The product communicates with Cognos through Web services and does not require the use of SDK.
For more details, visit their website: www.bspsoftware.com
