Using Tabular Models - SQL Server Analysis Services 2012 Cube Development - page 305

Creating a Tabular Model
In this recipe, we will walk through creating a Tabular Model database project using
SSDT. As you begin working with Tabular Models, you will see that some of the com-
plexities in setting up a good multidimensional model do not apply. While working with
multidimensional models, you typically need all of the data organized and ready for
consumption by Analysis Services. However, Tabular Models are much more forgiv-
ing. The key design requirement to take into consideration is: What data does the
business need? As a result, we will create a model database here and work through
model modifications in the following recipes.
Getting ready
Before you create your first Tabular Model database, you must have an installation of
Analysis Services with a Tabular Model instance available to you. This can be a local
installation or a network installation. This is required because a Tabular Model data-
base is developed in real time using the xVelocity In-Memory Analytics Engine and
RAM to store the database while you are working with it.
How to do it…
Let's get started on our Tabular Model by performing the following steps:
1. Using SSDT, choose to create a new project. This will bring up the New Pro-
ject dialog. From this dialog, there are three methods to create a new Tabular
project. Two of them are import options: Import from PowerPivot and Import
from Server (Tabular) . Although they are not the subject of this recipe, I do
want to call these options out. The Import from Power Pivot option is partic-
ularly effective while upgrading a Power Pivot model to take advantage of the
Tabular Model features in Analysis Services. This usually includes expanded
requirements such as security, processing, and partitioning. You can create
a Tabular Model that serves as a template that can be modified to meet any
business needs. This makes the Import from Server (Tabular) option com-
pelling for scenarios that can use baseline models for targeted analysis.
2. We are going to pursue the first option in the list that allows us to build a Tab-
ular Model using Visual Studio. Select Analysis Services Tabular Project ,
give the new project a name, and set a location that will work for you.