Designing a multidimensional BI semantic model
In this chapter from Exam Ref 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models , learn how to create a multidimensional database by using Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS), design and implement dimensions in a cube, and implement measures and measure groups in a cube.
A business intelligence semantic model is a semantic layer that you create to represent and enhance data for use in reporting and analysis applications. Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) supports two types of business intelligence semantic models: multidimensional and tabular. In this chapter, we review the skills you need to create a multidimensional database, whereas we explore the skills necessary for creating a tabular model in Chapter 2, “Design a tabular BI semantic model.” We start with the steps required to physically instantiate a multidimensional database on an SSAS server. Then we work through the steps to perform, and the decisions to consider, for the two main objects in a multidimensional database, dimensions and measures.
Skills in this chapter:
Create a multidimensional database by using Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS)
Design and implement dimensions in a cube
Implement measures and measure groups in a cube