SQL Server Analysis Services SDK

Explore the rich set of tools and APIs for building powerful analytical solutions.

SDK Overview

The SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) Software Development Kit (SDK) provides developers with the necessary tools, libraries, and documentation to build, manage, and interact with SSAS multidimensional and tabular models. Leverage the SDK to automate administrative tasks, create custom client applications, integrate with other systems, and extend the functionality of Analysis Services.

The SSAS SDK is designed to offer comprehensive support for various development paradigms and programming languages, ensuring flexibility and power in your BI solutions.

Key Components and Concepts

1. Client Libraries

Interact with SSAS programmatically through robust client libraries:

Analysis Management Objects (AMO): A .NET library for programmatic management of SSAS objects and databases. Use AMO to automate administrative tasks, deploy models, manage security, and more.
XML for Analysis (XMLA): A SOAP-based protocol for communication with SSAS. It's the foundation for many operations and can be used directly or through higher-level libraries.
Tabular Model Scripting Language (TMSL): A JSON-based scripting language for managing tabular models. Ideal for scripting deployments and configurations of tabular databases.

2. Data Access and Query Languages

Retrieve and manipulate data from your SSAS models:

Multidimensional Expressions (MDX): A powerful query language for querying multidimensional cubes.
Data Analysis Expressions (DAX): A formula expression language used primarily with tabular models and Power BI.

3. Developer Tools and Integration

Tools that facilitate development and integration:

SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT): The primary IDE for developing SSAS models. Integrates with Visual Studio and provides a visual designer for both multidimensional and tabular models.
Integration Services (SSIS): Use SSIS to ETL data into SSAS and automate model processing.
Scripting and Automation: Utilize scripting languages like PowerShell with AMO cmdlets or custom scripts to automate deployments and maintenance.

Getting Started with the SDK

To begin developing with the SSAS SDK:

Install the latest SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) for Visual Studio.
Familiarize yourself with the core concepts of multidimensional and tabular models.
Explore the documentation and samples provided for AMO, XMLA, MDX, and DAX.
Start building your first SSAS project using SSDT.

Important: Ensure you are using versions of the SDK and client libraries compatible with your SSAS server version.

Common SDK Scenarios

Automating model deployment
Creating custom reporting tools
Developing data integration processes
Implementing complex business logic within models
Managing security and user permissions programmatically

Dive deeper into each section of the SDK to unlock the full potential of SQL Server Analysis Services for your business intelligence needs.