MDM Development

This section covers the development aspects of multidimensional models in SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS). We'll explore the tools, techniques, and best practices for building robust and performant analytical solutions.

Introduction to MDM Development

Developing a multidimensional model involves defining the structure of your data, creating measures, dimensions, hierarchies, and calculations. This process typically involves using SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) or Visual Studio with the Analysis Services projects extension.

Key Components of MDM Development

Dimensions

Dimensions are fundamental to multidimensional modeling. They provide descriptive attributes that allow users to slice and dice data. Development involves:

• Creating dimension tables.
• Defining attribute relationships.
• Configuring hierarchies (e.g., Time, Geography, Product).
• Handling dimension types (e.g., Standard, Date, Account).

Cubes and Measure Groups

Cubes are the core analytical objects in SSAS. They are built from measure groups, which in turn are based on fact tables. Development includes:

• Defining fact tables and their relationship to dimensions.
• Creating measure groups and selecting measures.
• Configuring aggregation designs for performance.
• Setting measure properties (e.g., aggregation function, format string).

Measures and Calculations

Measures represent the quantitative data users will analyze (e.g., Sales Amount, Quantity). Calculations allow for more complex analysis, such as:

• Basic Measures: Sum, Count, Average, Min, Max.
• Calculated Measures: Using MDX (Multidimensional Expressions) to create dynamic calculations.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Defining targets and actual values for business metrics.

MDX (Multidimensional Expressions)

MDX is the query language for multidimensional data. Proficiency in MDX is crucial for developing complex calculations, custom aggregations, and advanced reporting features.

-- Example of a simple MDX calculated measure
WITH MEMBER [Measures].[Profit Margin] AS
    ([Measures].[Profit] / [Measures].[Sales Amount])
SELECT
    [Measures].[Profit Margin] ON COLUMNS
FROM
    [YourCube]
                

Tools for MDM Development

SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT)

SSDT provides a rich development environment for creating, deploying, and managing SSAS models. It integrates seamlessly with Visual Studio.

Visual Studio with Analysis Services Projects

The Analysis Services projects extension for Visual Studio offers a dedicated workspace for multidimensional modeling, including:

• Schema browsers.
• Designer interfaces for cubes, dimensions, and measures.
• MDX scripting editors.
• Debugging and testing tools.

Best Practices

• Start with a solid data model: Ensure your source data is clean and well-structured.
• Design for performance: Optimize aggregations, partition data, and use appropriate dimension types.
• Understand your business requirements: Align your model design with user needs and analytical goals.
• Use clear naming conventions: Make your model intuitive and easy to understand.
• Document your model: Provide clear descriptions for dimensions, measures, and calculations.