Nothing close enough? Start from a blank erd → Describe it in one paragraph.
How to use an erd template.
- 01Define sources and targets
Identify all source systems (databases, APIs, files) and the target data warehouse or data lake.
- 02Model extraction entities
Create entities representing raw data tables or staging areas where data is first landed.
- 03Design transformation logic
Add entities and relationships that capture data cleansing, enrichment, aggregation, or business rules.
- 04Map the load phase
Connect transformation outputs to final destination tables, showing the full pipeline.
- 05Customize and share
Adjust colors, labels, and notes, then export or embed your diagram for team collaboration.
Questions about erd templates
What entities are typically included in an ETL process ERD?
You'll usually see source tables, staging areas, transformation steps (like lookups, mappings, or aggregations), and final dimension and fact tables in the target data warehouse.
Can I link multiple data sources in one diagram?
Absolutely. You can model multiple extraction paths, combine them in transformation entities, and load into a unified target schema.
How do I show data transformations in an ERD?
Use intermediate entities to represent transformation operations, add attributes for business rules, and use relationship labels to indicate data flow or logic.
Is this ERD suitable for cloud ETL pipelines (AWS Glue, Azure Data Factory)?
Yes, the entity relationship model is platform-agnostic. You can adapt it to any ETL tool by adding service-specific notes or icons.
Can I collaborate with my team on an ETL ERD?
Yes, our diagram maker supports sharing via link or embedding, so team members can review and edit together in real time.