SQL Server Analysis Services Tabular Models

Create and manage high-performance data models for business intelligence.

Overview of Tabular Models

Tabular models in SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) provide an in-memory, columnar data modeling framework that enables users to build semantic data models for business intelligence solutions. These models are designed for ease of use, rapid development, and high performance, leveraging the VertiPaq in-memory analytics engine.

Key Concepts

  • Data Modeling: Define tables, relationships, and calculations using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions).
  • In-Memory Processing: Utilize the VertiPaq engine for fast query performance.
  • DAX: A powerful formula language for creating measures, calculated columns, and row-level security.
  • Data Sources: Connect to various relational databases, cloud sources, and other data providers.
  • Deployment: Deploy models to SQL Server Analysis Services or Azure Analysis Services.

Getting Started

To begin working with tabular models, you'll typically use SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT) or Visual Studio with Analysis Services projects. These tools provide an integrated development environment for creating, managing, and deploying your models.

Steps to Create a Tabular Model:

  1. Install SSDT: Ensure you have the latest version of SQL Server Data Tools installed.
  2. Create a New Project: In Visual Studio, create a new "Analysis Services Tabular Project".
  3. Add Data Sources: Connect to your data sources using the Table Import Wizard.
  4. Build the Model: Define tables, relationships, and import data.
  5. Create Calculations: Write DAX formulas for measures and calculated columns.
  6. Deploy the Model: Deploy your model to an SSAS instance or Azure Analysis Services.

DAX Essentials

DAX is crucial for tabular modeling. It's used to define:

  • Measures: Aggregations and calculations performed in the context of a query (e.g., SUM, AVERAGE, CALCULATE).
  • Calculated Columns: Columns added to a table that are computed row by row.
  • Calculated Tables: Entire tables generated using DAX expressions.
  • Row-Level Security: Define user-specific data access rules.
-- Example DAX Measure for Total Sales Total Sales := SUM(Sales[SalesAmount])

Benefits of Tabular Models

  • Faster query performance due to the in-memory engine.
  • Easier to understand and develop for business users familiar with Excel and Power BI.
  • Strong integration with Power BI and other Microsoft BI tools.
  • Supports both on-premises and cloud deployments.

Explore the resources below to dive deeper into tabular model development, DAX, and best practices.

Learn More about DAX Deploying Tabular Models