Using SQL to Build MDX parameters

I had a client report which needed a parameter list to default to the previous closed financial period date. The SSAS cube includes reporting periods into the future which have data entries even if the month has not been 'closed' by accounting department. Without a 'Month Closed' flag in the cube, the only way to build the parameter list was by querying the date dimension database table. When adding a date parameter to the report dataset, SSRS will automatically build a hidden dataset which pulls the list of available dates from the cube. For this example, I left that data…
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Learning the Microsoft BI Stack: SSRS

I've been learning and working with IBM Cognos since it arrived on my desk in 1999.  It was an ugly brown box labeled Cognos 5.5.  Since then I've studied and learned 6.x then 7.x and finally made the painful transition to 8.x. Now I'm studying both the Microsoft Business Intelligence stack (SSAS, SSIS and SSRS) along with learning the new Cognos 10. I just want to list two WROX titles which are the best I've found for getting up to speed quickly. For learning SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) go get the Professional series book 'Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Reporting…
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