Core Concepts
The core concepts of AI Squared are the foundation of your data journey. They include Sources, Destinations, Models, and Syncs. Understanding these concepts is crucial to building a robust data pipeline.
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Sources: The Foundation of Data
Overview
Sources are the starting points of your data journey. It’s where all your data is stored and where AI Squared pulls data from.
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These can be:
- Data Warehouses: For example,
Snowflake
Google BigQuery
andAmazon Redshift
- Databases and Files: Including traditional databases,
CSV files
,SFTP
Adding a Source
To integrate a source with AI Squared, navigate to the Sources overview page and select ‘Add source’.
Destinations: Where Data Finds Value
Overview
‘Destinations’ in AI Squared are business tools where you want to send your data stored in sources.
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These can be:
- CRM Systems: Like Salesforce, HubSpot, etc.
- Advertising Platforms: Such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, etc.
- Marketing Tools: Braze and Klaviyo, for example
Integrating a Destination
Add a destination by going to the Destinations page and clicking ‘Add destination’.
Models: Shaping Your Data
Overview
‘Models’ in AI Squared determine the data you wish to sync from a source to a destination. They are the building blocks of your data pipeline.
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They can be defined through:
- SQL Editor: For customized queries
- Visual Table Selector: For intuitive interface
- Existing dbt Models or Looker Looks: Leveraging pre-built models
Importance of a Unique Primary Key
Every model must have a unique primary key to ensure each data entry is distinct, crucial for data tracking and updating.
Syncs: Customizing Data Flow
Overview
‘Syncs’ in AI Squared helps you move data from sources to destinations. They help you in mapping the data from your models to the destination.
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There are two types of syncs:
- Full Refresh Sync: All data is synced from the source to the destination.
- Incremental Sync: Only the new or updated data is synced.
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