Introduction to SQL Server 2000 Analysis Services: Parent-Child Dimensions - Page 9

Standard dimensions provide for values in the fact table "tying" or "belonging" to leaf-level members. Here, again, the parent-child dimension requires different treatment. Values must "roll up" to the hierarchical parent levels of the respective leaf-level members to meet many reporting and analysis requirements. Let's investigate the mechanics behind making this happen.

14. Select the HumanResource dimension within the cube tree again.
15. Click the Advanced tab in the Properties window beneath the tree.
16. Click the Members with Data property.
17. Select Non-Leaf Data Visible from the dropdown value selection list.

The relevant portion of the Advanced tab appears as shown below:

Illustration 31: Members with Data Property: Non-Leaf Data Visible

The property that we have modified is an option that is exclusive to the parent-child dimension. Our selection, Non-Leaf Data Visible, generates a surrogate member for each parent hierarchical level. This allows for the presentation of data in the context of the new members and the parents that they represent.

18. Press Enter.

The Preview pane appears similar to the one partially illustrated below:

Illustration 32: The Preview Pane (Partial View) Shows Results of Our Modifications

Note the appearance of the new members; by default, they are indicated by parentheses. Changing the template for how the member names are presented is straightforward.

19. Select the HumanResource dimension within the cube tree, once again.
20. Click the Advanced tab in the Properties window beneath the tree.
21. Click the Data Member Caption Template property.
22. Remove the contents of the property value field, leaving only the asterisk (*). Type "- Individual" into the field.

The relevant portion of the Advanced tab appears as shown below:

Illustration 33: The Data Member Caption Template Property with Modification

23. Double-click the Sr. VP level heading to collapse the hierarchy somewhat and to free up real estate.
24. Press Enter.

The Preview pane appears similar to the sample illustrated below:

Illustration 34: The Preview Pane with Data Member Caption Template Property Modifications

Page 10: Enabling Values Continued

See All Articles by Columnist William E. Pearson, III