What type of key is created during ETL processes in Caboodle?

During the ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes in Caboodle, a surrogate key is created to uniquely identify each record within a database. A surrogate key is a unique identifier for an entity that is not derived from the actual data but is instead assigned, typically as an incrementing number or a unique identifier.

This approach is beneficial because it provides a consistent and simple way to identify records across different tables and allows for flexibility when dealing with changes in the data. For instance, if the natural keys (those that derive from the actual data) change over time, the surrogate key remains stable and unaffected by these changes. This characteristic is crucial in data warehousing environments, including Caboodle, as it ensures data integrity and simplifies the process of data integration from various sources.

In contrast, composite keys, foreign keys, and primary keys have their specific roles but do not serve the same purpose in the context of ETL processes in Caboodle. A composite key is made up of two or more columns to create a unique identifier, while a foreign key is used to establish a link between tables. A primary key uniquely identifies a record in a table, but it is usually based on existing data rather than a newly assigned value, which is why