Getting Started with Tabular Models

Last updated: March 15, 2023 | By: Microsoft Documentation Team

Welcome to the world of Tabular Models in SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS). Tabular models offer a modern, in-memory approach to business intelligence, enabling you to build sophisticated analytical solutions with a simpler, relational data modeling paradigm.

What are Tabular Models?

Tabular models store data in memory using a columnar database and a powerful query engine. They are designed for performance and ease of use, allowing business users and developers alike to create data models that are intuitive and highly performant. Unlike multidimensional models, tabular models leverage familiar relational concepts like tables, columns, and relationships.

Key Benefits

Performance: In-memory processing provides lightning-fast query response times.
Ease of Use: Relational modeling concepts make them easier to understand and develop.
Integration: Seamless integration with tools like Power BI, Excel, and SQL Server Reporting Services.
Scalability: Can handle large datasets efficiently.

Creating Your First Tabular Model

The primary tool for developing tabular models is Visual Studio with SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT). Here's a simplified overview of the steps:

1. Project Setup

In Visual Studio, create a new "Analysis Services Tabular Project".

2. Data Source Connection

Connect to your data sources. This could be SQL Server databases, Azure SQL Database, or other compatible sources.

3. Table Import

Import tables from your data sources into your tabular model. You can select specific columns and apply basic transformations.

4. Model Design

Define relationships between tables, create calculated columns using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions), and establish measures for aggregations.

Tip: DAX is a powerful formula language that you'll use extensively for creating business logic and calculations within your tabular models.

5. Deployment

Deploy your tabular model to an SSAS instance. Once deployed, you can connect to it from various client applications.

Example DAX Calculation

Let's say you have a 'Sales' table with 'Quantity' and 'Price' columns. You can create a calculated column 'LineTotal' like this:


                    LineTotal = Sales[Quantity] * Sales[Price]

Next Steps

Now that you have a basic understanding, explore the following resources:

Designing Tabular Models: Learn about best practices for data modeling.
Managing Tabular Models: Discover how to manage and secure your models.
DAX Documentation: Dive deeper into the DAX language.