Mastering SQL for Oracle Fusion HCM – Chapter 18. How to Debug and Test SQL Queries in Fusion HCM

 

✅Chapter 18. How to Debug and Test SQL Queries in Fusion HCM

Debug and Test SQL Queries in Oracle Fusion HCM

Learn how to efficiently debug, validate, and test your SQL queries in Oracle Fusion HCM using BIP, SQL Developer, and OTBI with real-time tips and examples.

🔹 Introduction

Even well-written SQL can produce wrong results or poor performance if not tested properly. In Oracle Fusion HCM, debugging and validating your SQL is crucial due to date-effective data, complex joins, and large datasets. This chapter covers:

  • Common debugging techniques

  • Validation steps in BIP, OTBI, and SQL Developer

  • Troubleshooting real-time issues

  • Optimization and error tracing strategies

🔹 1. Where You Can Test SQL in Fusion HCM

ToolUse Case
SQL DeveloperFast development & test environment
BI PublisherValidate BIP reports and parameters
OTBIIndirect testing via logical SQL
ADF DiagramsUnderstand data models and relationships

🔹 2. Common SQL Issues and Debug Techniques

ProblemDebug Tip
No rows returnedCheck effective dates and filters
Duplicate rowsUse DISTINCT or review JOINs
Wrong columnsCross-check column/table mapping
NULL values unexpectedly shownUse NVL or COALESCE
Query too slowUse indexed columns and limit rows

🔹 3. Steps to Debug a SQL Query (Structured Approach)

✅ Step 1: Start Simple

Begin with a basic version of the query.


SELECT person_number
FROM   per_all_people_f; ✅ Step 2: Add WHERE Conditions One by One

WHERE TRUNC(SYSDATE) BETWEEN effective_start_date AND effective_end_date

✅ Step 3: Add Joins Gradually


JOIN per_all_assignments_m ON per_all_people_f.person_id = per_all_assignments_m.person_id

✅ Step 4: Validate Record Counts

Use COUNT(*) to check joins:


SELECT COUNT(*) FROM   per_all_people_f✅ Step 5: Print Intermediate Results

Use SELECT with fixed WHERE clauses to isolate issues.

🔹 4. Debugging in BI Publisher

💡 Tip: Use the "View" button in the data model to preview raw query results.

Test with Parameters:


WHERE department_id = :P_DEPT_ID

  • Use default values in parameters to test quickly.

  • If no rows, hardcode a known value and re-run.

🔹 5. Debugging in SQL Developer

✅ Example: Check NULL join behavior


SELECT p.person_number,
       e.email_address
FROM   per_all_people_f p,
       per_email_addresses e
WHERE  e.email_address IS NULL
       AND p.person_id = e.person_id 

✅ Tips:

  • Use EXPLAIN PLAN to check query execution.

  • Use ROWNUM, FETCH FIRST to avoid overloading:


FETCH FIRST 50 ROWS ONLY

🔹 6. Debugging OTBI Reports

  • Use Advanced > Logical SQL to trace logic.

  • Always check filters and subject area limitations.

  • Use dashboard prompts for dynamic testing.

🔹 7. Real-Time Testing Scenarios

🔸 Scenario 1: Payroll Element Not Showing

Fix: Ensure element is effective today:


TRUNC(SYSDATE) BETWEEN effective_start_date AND effective_end_date

🔸 Scenario 2: Duplicate Employee Records

Fix: Use DISTINCT or correct JOIN:


SELECT DISTINCT p.person_number, a.assignment_id

🔸 Scenario 3: Parameter Not Returning Values

Fix: Log parameter value using :P_PARAM_NAME and test manually by replacing with a real value.

🔹 8. Best Practices for SQL Testing in Fusion HCM

  • ✅ Always use date filters (TRUNC(SYSDATE))

  • ✅ Verify joins with minimal records

  • ✅ Test with known employee numbers

  • ✅ Use meaningful aliases for clarity

  • ✅ Use NVL to avoid null propagation

  • ✅ Save versions of your queries for rollback

🔹 Summary

✅ Debug SQL queries step-by-step, starting small
✅ Use tools like SQL Developer and BIP "View" for output validation
✅ Handle nulls, duplicates, and date filters smartly
✅ Always test business logic using real-time employee data and assignments

🔹 Next Steps


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