Business Analyst: What is a SQL view?

View — virtual table based on query.

Purpose:

• Simplify complex queries.
• Restrict access to data.
• Provide consistent interface.

Example:

1-- Create view
2CREATE VIEW customer_orders AS
3SELECT c.name, c.email, o.total, o.order_date
4FROM customers c
5INNER JOIN orders o ON c.id = o.customer_id;
6
7-- Use view
8SELECT * FROM customer_orders
9WHERE order_date > '2024-01-01';

Benefits:

• Simplifies reporting.
• Security (hide columns).
• Consistent data access.

BA relevance:

• Define reporting views.
• Simplify data access.
• Support analytics.