In this article, we will introduce the concept of virtual cubes, and practice their creation and use. We will discuss the options that virtual cubes provide, from the intermingling perspectives of consolidation of multiple data sources, presentation enhancement and control, and other functionality.

In this article, we will:

• Prepare Analysis Services, as well as our environment, for the cube model we intend to design;
• Discuss potential uses of virtual cubes to offer options that extend the functionality and capabilities of individual OLAP cubes;
• Create virtual cubes to practice their development for:
  • Consolidation of data within multiple OLAP cubes;
  • Comparison of data between individual cubes;
  • Control /customization of information presentation.
• Modify the structure of a virtual cube;
• Add a calculated member within a virtual cube;
•  Discuss limitations and strengths in the use of virtual cubes where appropriate.

Read the Article ...

About the Series:

This article is a member of the series Introduction to MSSQL Server 2000 Analysis Services. The series is designed to provide hands-on application of the fundamentals of MS SQL Server 2000 Analysis Services, with each installment progressively adding features and techniques designed to meet specific real - world needs. For more information on the series, as well as the hardware / software requirements to prepare for the exercises we will undertake, please see my initial article, Creating Our First Cube.
Analysis Services, Virtual Cubes, Data Consolidation, Calculated Members, Security, OLAP

All Contents Copyright Island Technologies Inc. ^®  Island Technologies^® and Island Technologies Inc.^®  are registered trademarks of Island Technologies Inc., protected in the United States and other countries.  For information, contact Island.