Database views for cross-table data

  • Release version: Zurich
  • Updated March 25, 2026
  • 1 minute to read
  • Database views combine fields from multiple tables into a single queryable entity. Add views to the semantic layer to answer cross-table questions in one query instead of requiring separate questions.

    Database views in the semantic layer enable you to answer questions that join data across tables in a single query instead of requiring separate questions or complex queries.

    When to use database views

    Use database views when:

    • Users ask questions that join data across tables, such as incidents and changes.
    • A cross-table report already exists as a database view.
    • The same fields from different tables keep appearing together in user questions.

    Implementation requirements

    When working with database views:

    • You must be in the same application scope as the database view.
    • Add database views to Semantic Table Configuration the same way as regular tables. You need the sn_query_gen.admin role or higher.
    • Dimension names include a source-table prefix, such as inc_number or chg_priority.
    • Entity descriptions are auto-generated from the source tables and update automatically.
    • The Include child hierarchy setting has no effect for database views.