Arranging Dimensions for Calculation Performance

Dimension placement (within outlines) affects calculation time. For details, see Oracle Essbase Database Administrator's Guide.

Note:

This functionality does not apply to aggregate storage databases.

Rules files contain a dimension build, global properties option that optimizes calculation performance by placing dimensions in the following order (called an hourglass arrangement):

  1. Densest dimensions (accounts and time)

  2. Remaining dense dimensions (largest to smallest)

  3. Sparse dimensions (smallest to largest)

  4. Attribute dimensions (no particular order)

The Optimize Outline feature of Outline Editor also places dimensions in an hourglass arrangement. But, the Outline Editor feature also makes changes to the storage properties of some members. See Optimizing Outlines for Batch Calculation Performance.

  To place outline dimensions in an hourglass arrangement:

  1. Open or create a rules file.

  2. Select Options, then Dimension build settings.

  3. In the Dimension Build Settings dialog box, select the Global Settings tab.

  4. Select Arrange dimensions by size and type to an hourglass shape.

  5. Click OK.

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