What Does Extract Transform Load (ETL) Mean?

Extract transform load (ETL) is the process of extraction, transformation and loading during database use, but particularly during data storage use. It includes the following sub-processes:

Techopedia Explains Extract Transform Load (ETL)

The first phase of an ETL process focuses on retrieving the data from the storage source. Most data storage projects integrate data received from various source systems. Each individual system may employ a separate data organization or format. Common data source structures are relational databases and pure data files. They may also include non-relational database patterns like information management systems or other data structures like virtual storage access method (VSAM) or indexed sequential access method (ISAM). Data sources can even include external sources such as data coming from the Internet or through a scanning system.