Professional Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services 2008 with MDX (Wrox Programmer to Programmer)

Welcome to an in-depth exploration of Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) 2008, a cornerstone of Microsoft's Business Intelligence suite. "Professional Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services 2008 with MDX" offers an authoritative guide for developers, analysts, and IT professionals seeking to unlock the potential of SSAS for analytical data processing. This book delves deep into the architecture, design, development, and deployment of SSAS solutions, fortified with practical advice that brings clarity to complex subjects. Whether you're transitioning from basic understanding to professional mastery or seeking to innovate with multidimensional data, this book is your perfect companion.

Detailed Summary of the Book

"Professional Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services 2008 with MDX" begins with a comprehensive overview of the SSAS architecture, setting the stage for the intricate details that follow. Readers are guided through the installation and configuration of SSAS, laying a solid foundation for understanding its nuanced capabilities. As the book progresses, you'll delve into the process of designing multidimensional models, a core concept underpinning the power of SSAS. The authors illustrate how to structure data using cubes, dimensions, and measures—components that form the bedrock of analytical applications.

Moving into the strategic realm of data manipulation, the book articulates the significance of Multidimensional Expressions (MDX), elaborating on its syntax and functionality. With practical examples and scenarios, you learn how to craft advanced queries that extract meaningful insights from complex datasets. The book does not shy away from the intricacies; instead, it provides a clear breakdown of MDX functionalities for users to master data retrieval and manipulation.

Advanced users will appreciate the sections dedicated to performance optimization and security. These chapters explore optimization techniques to enhance query performance and establish robust security measures to safeguard data integrity. Additional sections on automation of processes using XMLA, scripting for deployment, and integration with Microsoft BI tools expand the reader's toolkit, ensuring a rounded understanding of the SSAS environment.

Key Takeaways

• Gain a complete understanding of SSAS architecture and its components.
• Learn to design efficient and effective multidimensional models.
• Master the use of MDX for advanced querying and data manipulation.
• Discover strategies for optimizing SSAS performance and securing your data.
• Explore integration possibilities with other Microsoft Business Intelligence tools.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"The true power of Analysis Services is realized when data is molded and interpreted through the lens of dimensional and hierarchical analysis."

"MDX is not just a query language—it's the bridge that connects business questions to analytical insights."

Why This Book Matters

"Professional Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services 2008 with MDX" stands out in the realm of technical literature by offering a practical yet thorough examination of SSAS. In the current data-driven environment, businesses need robust solutions for data analysis and insights generation. This book delivers expertise that empowers professionals to build and maintain scalable SSAS solutions that deliver strategic advantages to organizations. By demystifying the complexities of SSAS and MDX, it equips readers with the skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges and successfully evolve with the ever-changing landscape of data analysis.

Furthermore, the comprehensive approach ensures that readers not only understand the technical underpinnings of SSAS but also appreciate the business context in which these solutions are applied. As data continues to be a critical asset for decision-making, the knowledge imparted by this book has never been more relevant.