- About the Series
- Introduction
- Introducing MDX Queries
- Key Concepts and Terminology
- Introducing Sets
- Understanding Metadata
- Working with MDX Queries
- Working with Member Sets
- Specifying Members in a Set
- Using the CrossJoin Function to Combine Multidimensional Sets
- Looking Ahead to Calculated Members
- Next in This Series
Next in This Series
We began an exploration of MDX queries in this article, learning the differences between MDX expressions and MDX query statements. We worked with PivotTable lists as a means of gaining a high-level appreciation for the concepts involved in selecting and limiting the values extracted from cubes, to precisely define levels of specific dimensions. As a part of this overview, we explored key MDX concepts and terminology. Visual retrieval of data in the PivotTable list was followed by an exploration of MDX query building from the ground up, using the MDX sample application as a vehicle for crafting statements and practicing their use.
We delved into set functions and the creation and use of sets, discussing their importance in MDX queries. By building in the specification of members and the combination of multiple dimensions in the row and column axes, we added truly multidimensional capabilities to reports. Finally, we previewed the creation of dynamic calculated members within our MDX queries, and set the stage for our next lesson on building calculated members.
In the next article, we'll resume our exploration of calculated members. We'll continue to practice the creation of dynamic calculated members, both on nonmeasure and measure dimensions, discussing significant differences in the two general types. We'll also move into the realm of aggregation functions, practicing with cumulative totals and other uses. Finally, we'll draw on our exposure to member functions in earlier articles, to calculate values based on the retrieval of member properties with calculated members.