• You have dynamic formatting which enables you to identify input cells. In this example, the data input cells that are orange are the cells to input on. The blue cells are the calculated cells. This is automatically created by the browser.
• Enter the numbers you want and then refresh the data.
• You can also allocate data simply on data entry by using even, incremental or weighted allocation methods. Just type in your number and refresh the worksheet.
• You have full control of the cell formatting for input and calculated cells. Formatting covers the number, alignment, font, border, pattern and protection of cells.
• This view is free-form and allows for data entry.
• You can leverage your Excel knowledge and use Excel formulae in the data area, thus enabling more complex calculations without having to use Calculated Cells in the cube. Saying this, generally first prize is using Calculated Cells as the updating is then dynamic and users do not have to recreate these as they are done on the fly. However, some users may find it easier to use the Excel calculations.

View 2: Chart Entry

• You can drag the data points on the graph, then update and the data is updated in Analysis Services.

Points to note:

• Analysis Services can be used for data capture, including budgeting and forecasting applications. Saying this, Analysis Services could be a bit better with the writeback and as a result you need to take into account some considerations when creating these applications.
• o2olap have automated budgeting and forecasting for companies and if this is the type of application you wish to create, then please contact us to discuss this issue.
• We have had various discussions with OLAP analysts and consultants that advocate a combination of OLAP products - we, however, do not. This is backed up by the article below which appeared on DM Review on October 28, 2004. This was written by Jonathan Wu of Knightsbridge Solutions. www.knightsbridge.com.

"Business Intelligence: How Many BI Products Does Your Organization Need?"

Why waste money on expensive OLAP products, training, development, etc.?

Also refer to "OLAP Comparatives" for technology differences.

Give users the tools they need to save time and money.