Which statement best describes a data warehouse according to classic definitions (subject-oriented, integrated, time-variant, non-volatile)?

Introduction / Context:
Bill Inmon and Ralph Kimball describe a data warehouse as subject-oriented, integrated, time-variant, and non-volatile. Recognizing these traits distinguishes warehouses from OLTP systems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Warehouse content is curated for analysis by subject (e.g., sales, customer, product).
• Integration harmonizes naming, codes, and formats across sources.
• Warehouses store historical data and are not directly updated by end users.

Concept / Approach:
“Subject-oriented” means schemas and marts are organized around business topics, not application transactions. “Integrated” means consistent naming and data definitions. “Time-variant” retains history; “non-volatile” avoids random end-user updates.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Warehousing literature consistently emphasizes subject areas and conformed dimensions for cross-process analysis.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
End-user updates: Violates non-volatility.
Inconsistent naming: Violates integration.
Only current data: Violates time-variance.

Common Pitfalls:
Designing by source system rather than business subject, which hinders cross-functional analytics.

Final Answer:
Organized around important subject areas.