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Relation definitions

What is it

Relation definitions are a component used to describe and manage the associations between different objects, enabling a deeper and more nuanced understanding of customer interactions and data relationships. While events capture raw data and objects transform and summarize this data for actionable insights, relations provide the contextual connections between these objects. Relation definitions enrich the data by linking objects, providing a more complete picture of the customer journey and interaction ecosystem.


  • Definition: Connections between objects.

  • Examples:

    • Person-to-Household: Links a customer object to a household objects. (Person X part of Household Y)

    • Person-to-Company: Links person objects to company objects (Person X works at Company Y)

  • Characteristics:

    • Bidirectional: Can show interactions in multiple directions.

    • Dynamic: Changes based on events and data updates.

  • Usage: Enables understanding of relationships and interactions between different data points, enhancing data modeling and analysis

How to setup a relation between objects


As an example we will setup an Employee-Company relation, where the relation is 'Works at'.

First we need an Employee definition of type object and a Company definition of type object and then a ‘Works at' definition of type relation. In this relation definition, specify the relation properties, like 'Since’ for example, explaining since when the works at relation exists. Next, define the two objects between which the relationship is established. These objects form the basis of the relation, which is of a one-to-one (1-1) nature.

Relations describe how different objects are related to each other. These relations are crucial for understanding the connections and interactions between various data points. This can be used for example to setup a relation between a person and a company, like 'works at'.


When creating a new definition select the right type and follow the steps, go to create new definition for more details.

Keep in mind that relation definitions:

  • Do not have a unique identifier

  • Does not have an external key

  • Can hold PII data

  • Can hold sensitive data


Use cases

Employee-Company Relations

  • Description : Defines the relationship between individuals (employees) and organizations (companies), such as "works at."

  • Use Case : This relation allows businesses to analyze workforce distribution, monitor organizational hierarchies, and design targeted communications or initiatives based on company affiliations.


Supplier-Product Relations

  • Description : Connects suppliers to the products they provide, indicating which supplier is responsible for each product.

  • Use Case : Useful for supply chain management, this relation helps track sourcing origins, optimize inventory levels, and manage supplier performance evaluations based on product quality and delivery metrics.

Parent-Child Relationship

  • Description : Connects parents with their children, identifying guardianship and familial responsibilities.

  • Use Case : Retailers and service providers can offer promotions or products for both parents and children, like educational toys or family healthcare packages. Understanding this relation also allows businesses to predict life-stage transitions and corresponding product needs.

Teacher-School Relations

  • Description : Describes the relationship between teachers and the schools where they are employed or affiliated.

  • Use Case : Allows educational administrators to analyze staffing distributions, manage teacher assignments, and develop employment strategies or targeted professional development programs based on school-specific needs.

Student-Course Enrollment Relations

  • Description : Defines the relationship between students and courses, indicating which students are enrolled in which courses.

  • Use Case : By examining this relation, educational institutions can monitor enrollment trends, assess course popularity, and tailor educational resources or communications to specific student groups based on their course selections.