Attribute Member Keys - Pt 1: Introduction and Simple Keys

In this, Part I of a two-part article, we will gain an introduction to attribute member keys, with hands-on exposure within a sample cube. Our examination will include:

• A discussion of the three attribute usage types that we can define within each containing dimension.
• A focus upon the Key attribute usage type (within both Parts I and II of this article).
• An introduction to the attribute member key and a discussion of its role in meeting the primary objectives of business intelligence.
• A discussion of the role of the attribute member key from a technical perspective, including its purpose within its containing dimension within Analysis Services.
• A discussion of the role of the attribute member key from a technical perspective.
• An introduction to the concepts of simple and composite keys.
• A review of the Properties associated with a simple key, based upon the examination of a representative dimension attribute within our sample UDM.
• A look ahead to Part II of this article, where we explore the Properties associated with a composite key.