Introduction to Analysis Services Scripting

This document provides an overview of scripting capabilities within SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS). Scripting is a powerful way to automate administrative tasks, manage cube structures, deploy solutions, and interact with SSAS programmatically.

What is Analysis Services Scripting?

Analysis Services scripting encompasses a variety of technologies and approaches used to interact with and control SSAS instances and objects. The primary scripting languages and tools include:

  • XML for Analysis (XMLA): A standardized XML-based protocol for sending commands and receiving data from Analysis Services. It's the foundation for many scripting operations.
  • AMO (Analysis Management Objects): A .NET library that provides an object model for managing SSAS. AMO allows you to programmatically create, modify, and delete SSAS objects.
  • Scripting Language (e.g., PowerShell, VBScript): These languages can be used to orchestrate XMLA commands or leverage AMO to manage SSAS.
  • MDX (Multidimensional Expressions): While primarily a query language for multidimensional data, MDX can also be used within scripts for certain administrative tasks.
  • DAX (Data Analysis Expressions): Used for tabular models, DAX can also be incorporated into scripts that manage tabular databases.

Key Benefits of Scripting

  • Automation: Automate repetitive tasks like database creation, partitioning, processing, and configuration.
  • Deployment: Script the deployment of SSAS solutions (projects) to different environments.
  • Customization: Create custom administrative tools and workflows.
  • Integration: Integrate SSAS management into broader IT automation processes.
  • Efficiency: Reduce manual effort and potential for human error.

Common Scripting Scenarios

Scripting in SSAS is widely used for:

  • Creating and configuring SSAS databases and objects (cubes, dimensions, measures, etc.).
  • Processing data for cubes and dimensions.
  • Managing security roles and permissions.
  • Backing up and restoring SSAS databases.
  • Automating the deployment of SSAS project files.
  • Monitoring SSAS server performance and health.
  • Extracting metadata from SSAS databases.

Getting Started with Scripting

To begin scripting with Analysis Services, you will typically need:

  1. A working installation of SQL Server Analysis Services.
  2. An Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like Visual Studio with SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) for project development.
  3. Understanding of XMLA or the AMO .NET library.
  4. A scripting environment (e.g., PowerShell ISE, Visual Studio Code) if using PowerShell or other scripting languages.

Example: A Simple XMLA Command (Conceptual)

The following is a conceptual representation of an XMLA command to get database names:

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<Batch xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/analysisservices/2003/engine">
  <Discover ...>
    <RequestType>DISCOVER_DATABASES</RequestType>
    <Restrictions />
    <Properties>
      <PropertyList>
        <DataSourceInfo>Provider=MSOLAP;Data Source=YourServerName;</DataSourceInfo>
        <Format>Tabular</Format>
        <AxisFormat>TupleFormat</AxisFormat>
      </PropertyList>
    </Properties>
  </Discover>
</Batch>

This introduction sets the stage for deeper dives into specific scripting technologies and techniques. Refer to the following sections for detailed guidance on XMLA, AMO, and scripting best practices.