How OLAP DML Data Objects Behave in Expressions

Variables

As a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional array of data, depending on its definition. For example, as the target or source expression in an assignment statement.

See also "Using Variables and Relations in Expressions" and "Using Objects in Assignment Statements".

Relations

As a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional of data, depending on its definition. For example, as the target or source expression in an assignment statement as outlined in "Using Objects in Assignment Statements".

• When you use a relation in a text expression, the relation value is referenced as a text value. The values of the related dimension that is contained in the relation are converted into text, and you can use these values in an expression. You can also compare a text literal to a relation.

• When you use a relation in a numeric expression, the relation value is referenced by its position (an INTEGER) in its related dimension array. You can use this numeric value in an expression. The position number is based on the default status list of the dimension, not the current status list of the dimension.

See also "Using Variables and Relations in Expressions" , "Using Related Dimensions in Expressions".

Dimensions

As a one-dimensional array of data. When you use a TEXT dimension value in a numeric expression or compare values in a non-numeric dimension, Oracle OLAP uses the INTEGER position number of the value in the array (as based on the default status list) rather than the value itself.

See also "Specifying a Value of a CONCAT Dimension" and "Using Related Dimensions in Expressions".

Composites

You can use a composite wherever you can use a dimension.

See also "Specifying a Value of a Composite" .

Valuesets

As a list of dimension values.

See also "Using Variables and Relations in Expressions" and the DEFINE VALUESET command.

Dimension surrogates

As a one-dimensional array. A surrogate provides an alternative set of values for a dimension. When you use a TEXT surrogate value in a numeric expression or compare values in a non-numeric surrogate, Oracle OLAP uses the INTEGER position number of the value in the array (as based on the default status list) rather than the value itself.

Note: You can use a surrogate rather than a dimension in a model, in a LIMIT command, in a qualified data reference, or in data loading with statements such as FILEREAD, FILEVIEW, SQL FETCH, and SQL IMPORT. A surrogate cannot be a participant object in any argument in a DEFINE statement that defines another object.

Formulas

As a sub-expression or as an expression in a statement.

Programs

For a program that does not return a value, use the program name as you would an OLAP DML command. For a program that returns a value, invoke the program the same way that you invoke an OLAP DML function: use the program name in the expression and enclose the program arguments, if any, in parentheses.