Unveiling Next-Gen OLAP: Cube Cloud and Microsoft Tools
- Comprehensive Introduction and Agenda: Brian Bickell, Cube's VP of Strategy and Alliances, initiated the webinar. The discussion focused on Cube's recent features and its application in Microsoft Power BI and Excel. The topics on the agenda were the universal semantic layer, Cube Cloud, BI spreadsheet use cases, the latest features in DAX and Excel, and live demonstrations.
- Universal Semantic Layer: A critical part of the webinar was about Cube's product, Cube Cloud. Bickell presented it as a universal semantic layer, aiming to set up consistent models, enhance governance, and boost query performance. It was stressed that supporting various data sources and API endpoints is crucial for different use cases.
- APIs for various needs and AI-ready Data: Bickell provided insights on the diverse APIs used in Cube, such as REST and GraphQL APIs for web developers, SQL API for BI tools compatibility, and MDX and DAX API for supporting the Microsoft Analytics ecosystem. Bickell also highlighted Cube's role in preparing data for AI utilization, leveraging integrations with platforms like Lane Chain and Lane Graph.
- Importance of a Semantic Layer: Igor Lukanin, the Head of Product at Cube, spoke on the prevalent inconsistencies in data metrics across different departments in an enterprise. He underscored the necessity of a semantic layer to maintain uniformity and accuracy across different BI tools and apps. He introduced the 'semantic layer sync feature' that ensures the alignment of data models with BI tools, resulting in consistent metrics and superior performance.
- Embedded Analysis and Future Developments: Lukanin also discussed Cube's impact on embedded analytics and dashboard-based customer interfaces. He highlighted product evolution and emphasized the importance of caching and pre-aggregation technologies. Lukanin and Bickell addressed participant queries related to Microsoft Enterprise ID federation, Active Directory Federation Services, and future possibilities of splitting models. They also discussed Cube's advanced features like CubeStore and pre-aggregation technology, enabling quicker data exploration and decision-making.
The session was an informative and interactive overview of Cube Cloud's broader implications for data analytics and enterprise use.