Create Reports > Choosing the Best Universe
A universe is a database interface, which maps objects to fields in a database. The universe simplifies the report creation process by eliminating the need to know the database structure. It also provides automatic joins between database tables based on key values.
The name of the universe you choose for your report should begin with "EDW" or "DM". Any other universes listed are used solely for Standard Reports. If you open one of these universes, no classes or objects will be displayed, and you will therefore be unable to create a query.
In general, we recommend that you:
- review the universe descriptions and Quick Reference and Detailed Reference universe guides in the Metadata section
- review similar reports within the Query Clearinghouse to see which universe was used
- review the data education materials available for the type of data (e.g. Finance, Student, Human Resources) you need
- review documentation in the Solution Library
