On-demand Analysis vs Real-time Data and when it is needed

On-demand analysis is increasingly needed as we strive to get a competitive edge over rivals or adhere to auditing or regulations.

In this TDWI White Paper Cirro describe scenarios for providing the ability to do on-demand analysis and the potential solutions and costs involved.

Cirro's Data Hub enables you to write a single query that then splits into queries per data source and then knit them back together.  A bit like in Teradata when a query is shared across all amps and then brought together by the controlling amp at the end.

Many people confuse on-demand analysis and real-time data in their mind.

Real-time data can be very expensive to provide for analysis and thought should be taken into if it is necessary.  This TDWI Article David Stodder discusses when it is the right time for using data real-time.  I think his point 3 is very important (Don't assume that application business rules can handle real time).