Tabular Models from multidimensional measure groups

This document describes how to create new tabular models from existing measure groups in Muldidimensional (MD) SSAS databases.

1) Copy an MD module definition/measure group.

 In Navigator, right-click an module definition and select copy. Ensure that selected content is checked and click OK.

PS6_tab_copy.PNG

2) Create an new module group / tabular database.

In Navigator, right-click an SSAS/OLAP Database folder and select 'New SSAS Database'. Select 'Add empty' and click Next.

 PS6_tab_new.PNG

Add a name and select type 'Tabular SSAS Module'. Click 'Finish'  (or Next).

PS6_tab_new_type.PNG

For tabular models, an account is needed for connecting to data sources. This account is not the SQL user that is used in MD modules. It can be changed later under Advanced SSAS Settings in module group UI.

Select account to use and click Finish. The module is added.

PS6_tab_new_acc.PNG

3) Create an empty Model (module sub group / cube).

 In Navigator, right-click the new Module and select 'New Tabular Model'. Select 'Add empty' and click Next. 

 PS6_tab_new_model.PNG

Opt edit Name and Description and click Finish.

PS6_tab_new_model_name.PNG

4) Paste the copied model from 1) into the Tabular Model.

In Navigator, right-click Paste. A dialog for resolving references to dimensions is shown. Check that correct dimensions is mapped (Resolve = Replace w/selection, Item to replace contains correct dimension).

Note - some dimensions has Timefunction and Report is set to 'Ignore - do not use'. These are not usable in tabular models.

 PS6_tab_paste.PNG

Next, the name dialog is shown. Check name and basename for DWH tables/views and click Next. 

 PS6_tab_paste_name.PNG

Opt check dimensions.

PS6_tab_paste_dim.PNG

Optional, switch to the Cube BI tab to check converted BI. Replace <..> formulas and overlook definitions. Check against DAX refrences here.

PS6_tab_paste_bi.PNG

 From PS6.5, and using SQL2019+, an optional tab is added for Calculation Groups:
PS65_CalcGroup.PNG
From here you can click the check-box and select name of an Calculation Group. Add som sample items/templates by double-click the template list. For more on Calculation Groups click here.
 
Click OK to create model. This takes a  couple of minutes.

5) The Tabular Model is now created.

It contains on 'fact' table with the BL and one table for each used dimension.

PS6_tab_res.PNG

 

You will still need to review and modify the model. Not all BI can be converted and dimensions may not suit your needs.

Formulas  translated from MDX to DAX may contain <<...>> brackets that indicates failed / none supported conversion.