Adding Synonyms to a Metadata

The Add Synonyms to Metadata Store feature lets users associate alternative names with metadata fields, dimensions, and values for standardized terminology and intuitive querying, especially for NLP.

The Add Synonyms to Metadata Store feature allows users to enhance the flexibility of the metadata by associating alternative names (synonyms) with fields, dimensions, and values in the Metadata Store. This is especially useful for standardizing terminology or enabling more intuitive querying and reporting, particularly in Natural Language Processing (NLP) scenarios.

Adding synonyms helps ensure that the system can recognize and interpret different names for the same concept, allowing better accessibility, more accurate queries, and enhanced user experience.


Best Situations to Use

Use the Add Synonyms feature when you want to:

  • Improve query flexibility by allowing multiple names for the same concept (e.g., “Revenue” vs. “Sales”).

  • Standardize field names for consistent data usage across the platform.

  • Enable natural language processing (NLP) capabilities to understand and process variations in user queries.

  • Make dashboards and reports more user-friendly by accommodating various naming conventions.

Not Recommended for:

  • Simple data models where field names are consistent and do not require synonyms.

  • Complex synonym management in large-scale systems that might require bulk updates.

Steps to Add Synonyms

Add Synonyms for a Field

  • Select a Metadata Store from the Data Store Metadata list.

  • Click the Add Synonym to Data Store Metadata option.

  • The NLP Synonyms drawer will open, listing all available attributes in a list form.

  • Search for a field using the Search bar to find the relevant field from the list.

  • Select the field to which you want to add synonyms.

  • Click the Add Synonyms option.

  • A new window opens, allowing you to add synonyms for the selected field.

  • Insert the new synonyms in the specified input area.

  • The added synonyms will appear below the input field.

  • Click Save to store the new synonyms.

  • A success message will appear confirming that the synonym dictionary has been updated.

Add Synonyms for a Dimension Value

  • Navigate to the NLP Synonyms window for the selected Data Store Metadata.

  • Search for a dimension in the list using the Search bar.

  • Select the desired dimension (e.g., Designation).

  • Click the Add Values option for the selected dimension.

  • A new window opens, allowing you to search for specific values within the dimension (e.g., Manager, Director, etc.).

  • Search and select a value from the displayed list.

  • Click the Add Synonyms option for the selected value.

  • The selected sub-dimension will be added to the right pane.

  • Insert synonyms for the selected value in the input field.

  • Click Save to store the newly added synonyms.

  • A success message will appear, confirming the update of the synonym dictionary.

Providing the Unit for Dimensions

  • Navigate to the NLP Synonyms window for the selected Data Store Metadata.

  • Search for a measure in the list using the Search bar.

  • Select the desired measure (e.g., Sales Amount).

  • Open the Units drop-down menu.

  • The drop-down menu will contain various unit options (e.g., USD, EUR).

  • Select a unit for the measure from the available options.

  • A confirmation message will appear, informing the user of the recent update to the unit for the selected measure.

Example Use Case

  • Scenario: A new field, “Total Revenue,” is added to the data model, but it is commonly referred to as “Sales” in different departments.

  • Action: Add “Sales” as a synonym for “Total Revenue” to make querying and reporting easier for all users across the organization.

Notes:

  • After adding synonyms, it’s important to test the updated fields and dimensions to ensure they are recognized in queries and reports.

  • Synonyms should be meaningful and reflect common terminology or alternate names frequently used in the organization.

  • Keep track of added synonyms to avoid conflicts or confusion in naming conventions.

  • Use the Add Synonyms feature to ensure that new synonyms are properly integrated into the metadata dictionary.

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