Choosing a Tabular or Multidimensional Modeling Experience in SQL Server 2012 Analysis Services

A white paper that provides practical guidance to help BI professionals and decision makers decide whether SQL Server 2012 Analysis Services tabular or multidimensional modeling provides the best fit for your next BI solution.

With the release of SQL Server 2012, Microsoft addresses this goal and challenge with the introduction of the BI Semantic Model (BISM), a single model that can support a broad range of reporting and analysis while blending two Analysis Services modeling experiences behind the scenes:

• Multidimensional modeling, introduced with SQL Server 7.0 OLAP Services and continuing through SQL Server 2012 Analysis Services, enables BI professionals to create sophisticated multidimensional cubes using traditional online analytical processing (OLAP).

• Tabular modeling, introduced with PowerPivot for Microsoft Excel 2010, provides self-service data modeling capabilities to business and data analysts. The tabular modeling experience is more accessible to these users, many who have spent years working with data in desktop productivity tools like Excel and Microsoft Access.

Download White Paper: Choosing a Tabular or Multidimensional Modeling Experience in SQL Server 2012 Analysis Services