What is dbt
dbt (data build tool) is an open-source framework created by Fishtown Analytics for executing, testing, and documenting SQL query. It simplifies and automates work with in-database transformation. dbt is distributed as an open-source product (without GUI) and as a cloud version with GUI.
Why choose dbt
Clear Hierarchy for Starting the Calculation of Tables
dbt allows you to specify dependencies within each request. Based on these dependencies, the necessary tables are calculated in a row and a direct asynchronous graph is built.
Direct Ssynchronous Graph
This type of graph allows you to see exactly how the tables are formed. In dbt you can click on a specific table and see which tables it is being built from.
Jinja Templating Language Support
You need to write all the necessary calculations in the templates once – and the same model that worked on the old project will work on the new one. It saves a lot of time if you have a lot of repetitive tasks.
Ability to Test Data
When generating tables, you can test the data that appears in them, as well as set up sending notifications about detected errors.
Separation of Calculations Into Different Environments
If your project is at the testing stage, you can describe directly in the model that you need to work not with the entire data array, but with the selected piece.
Modern data stack
dbt Alternatives
How We Use dbt
Explore how we've helped businesses unlock the full potential of their data with dbt.
Frequently asked questions
What is dbt and how does it fit in a modern data stack?
dbt (data build tool) transforms raw data inside your warehouse using SQL and software engineering best practices — version control, testing, documentation. It sits between your ingestion layer and your BI tool.
Should we use dbt Core or dbt Cloud?
dbt Core is free and self-hosted — best for teams with DevOps capacity. dbt Cloud adds scheduling, IDE, CI/CD, and monitoring. For most startups, dbt Cloud saves 10-20 hours/month of infrastructure work.
How long does it take to implement dbt?
Initial dbt setup with 10-20 core models takes 2-4 weeks. A full analytics layer with staging, marts, tests, and docs typically takes 6-10 weeks.
Can dbt work with our existing warehouse?
Yes. dbt supports Snowflake, BigQuery, Redshift, PostgreSQL, Databricks, and more. We help teams adopt dbt regardless of their warehouse choice.
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