Dimension sort order determines the order that dimensions appear in the Essbase model and subsequent Essbase outline and, in turn, impacts the order the that dimensions are calculated. Calculation order for aggregate storage and block storage databases should be determined in advance, when designing the database. Note that dimension order can affect performance, especially for block storage databases. Calculation of aggregate storage and block storage databases is described in the Oracle Essbase Database Administrator's Guide. However, keep in mind the following:
Aggregate storage databases—The dimension solve order is used by aggregate storage databases and should be taken into account when setting the dimension sort order. If no dimension solve order or sort order is set, aggregations are performed in outline order. Attributes are calculated last.
Block storage databases—Dimension sort order is based on the calculation order, which is intrinsic in Essbase. Dense dimensions (for example, the time or measures dimensions) are calculated first, sparse dimensions are calculated next, and attribute dimensions are calculated last.
Dimension sort order uses buttons on the Essbase model toolbar.
To sort dimensions in the Essbase model:
Select a dimension to move, then click the up or down arrows to move the dimension's position within the model.
To move a dimension up in the model, click Move the selected dimension up in the list .
Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Alt+Shift+Up arrow key.
To move a dimension down in the model, click Move the selected dimension down in the list.
Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Alt+Shift+Down arrow key.
To save the changes in dimension order, click Apply the changes in dimension ordering to the model.
Optional: To cancel dimension order changes made during the current session, click Cancel the changes in dimension ordering.