IntegratingOLAP with NoSQL Databases in Big Data Environments: Systematic Mapping

Abstract

The growing importance of data analytics is leading to a shift in data management strategy at many companies, moving away from simple data storage towards adopting Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) query analysis. Concurrently, NoSQL databases are gaining ground as the preferred choice for storing and querying analytical data. This article presents a comprehensive, systematic mapping, aiming to consolidate research efforts related to the integration of OLAP with NoSQL databases in Big Data environments. After identifying 1646 initial research studies from scientific digital repositories, a thorough examination of their content resulted in the acceptance of 22 studies. Utilizing the snowballing technique, an additional three studies were selected, culminating in a final corpus of twenty-five relevant articles. This review addresses the growing importance of leveraging NoSQL databases for OLAP query analysis in response to increasing data analytics demands. By identifying the most commonly used NoSQL databases with OLAP, such as column-oriented and document-oriented, prevalent OLAP modeling methods, such as Relational Online Analytical Processing (ROLAP) and Multidimensional Online Analytical Processing (MOLAP), and suggested models for batch and real-time processing, among other results, this research provides a roadmap for organizations navigating the integration of OLAP with NoSQL. Additionally, exploring computational resource requirements and performance benchmarks facilitates informed decision making and promotes advancements in Big Data analytics. The main findings of this review provide valuable insights and updated information regarding the integration of OLAP cubes with NoSQL databases to benefit future research, industry practitioners, and academia alike. This consolidation of research efforts not only promotes innovative solutions but also promises reduced operational costs compared to traditional database systems.