MOLAP is an OLAP application used to index data in a multidimensional database, allowing the viewer to organize data into various types of sequence. It interfaces with information already residing in a given database, allowing for the selection of different aspects of the data and organization according to the specifications performed by the end user. MOLAP can capture and sort by any field contained in the database that is not limited by that type of activity. ROLAP and HOLAP are two other types of OLAP application processing options.
MOLAP, or Multidimensional Online Analytical Processing, is an application used to index data in a multidimensional database. As a form of online analytical processing, or OLAP, the MOLAP approach allows the data viewer to organize data into various types of sequence by specifying sorting protocols and other aspects of data retrieval. This means that instead of having to settle for one or two possible views of the data, the end user has the ability to view the data from different angles and with specified varying perimeters.
In essence, MOLAP interfaces with information already residing in a given database. The protocols within MOLAP allow for the selection of different aspects of the data, as well as the organization of the data according to the specifications performed by the end user. This feature allows multiple formats to be viewed, all based on information contained in a single database.
One way to understand how MOLAP works for the benefit of a business is to look at the application in a sales database. Often, such a database will contain key information about a client. This information may include things such as contact names, physical addresses, the type of goods and services purchased, the dates of purchases, the seller or account manager assigned to the customer, and sometimes the billed amounts related to those purchases.
Using MOLAP, a sales manager can create a report sorted by account manager, organized by customer names and identifying all revenue generated associated with seller accounts within a given time period. Similarly, MOLAP can generate a list of customers based in a particular location, which can be useful for scheduling appointments when a salesperson plans to be in the area. Essentially, MOLAP can capture and sort by any field contained in the database that is not limited by that type of activity.
Along with MOLAP, there are two other types of OLAP application processing options. ROLAP, or Relational Online Analytical Processing is sometimes considered a more focused version of MOLAP. HOLAP is a hybrid form of OLAP which is intended to combine the best features of ROLAP and MOLAP. All of these computing tools are widely used in many business and home applications, with MOLAP being used in the management and use of data warehouse applications in many businesses.
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