Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
In the first section, we discuss the Essbase command scripts, or Ess-Commands, or
simply EssCmds. The Essbase command scripting functionality is a holdover from
the very earliest versions of Essbase and was rumored to be phased out completely
in Essbase versions higher than version 9.x. We have since found out that Essbase
version 11.x will now contain EssCmd functionality to give you more time to
convert your scripts to the newer MaxL scripting language. The new MaxL scripting
language has replaced EssCmd and provides superior functionality and ease of use.
Although we are covering Essbase command scripts here we recommend you use
the new MaxL scripting language and the Essbase API instead, especially if you are
developing a new system.
The second section is where we discuss the Essbase MaxL scripting language
which has been developed to not only replace the aging Essbase command
scripting language, but also offer enhanced functionality while providing less
cryptic and easier to use command words.
In the third section, we discuss the Essbase Application Programming Interface or
API. The Essbase API has evolved over the successive versions into a very powerful
set of tools for the developer. What top of the line application package does not
include a complete array of API tools? You just have to figure that Essbase would
have one of the best available.
The Essbase API can be accessed from Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications,
known as VBA, and included with all Microsoft Office components. The API
can also be accessed from Visual Basic and COM+ applications, and the API can
also be accessed from Java programs. All in all it is a very versatile and extremely
useful tool to have in your Essbase toolbox!
Essbase command scripts (EssCmd)
EssCmd is a command-line Essbase interface that can perform operations interactively
through a command-line window or through a batch or script file. EssCmd operates
independently of any other Essbase analytic services interface, including the EAS tool,
the Essbase add-in, or any custom-built application programs.
The Essbase command scripting language, affectionately known as Ess-Command or
just EssCmd, is a highly functional set of tools that are used to automate many tasks
in the world of Essbase. Although EssCmd has been phased out in the latest versions
of Essbase it's still a good idea that you become familiar with EssCmd and what
you can do with it. If you ever inherit an existing system that is still using an older
version of Essbase chances are that it will have lots of EssCmds in use.
