Analysis Server

Business intelligence is defined as turning raw data into usable information. Companies generate data through normal business operations. The data is stored in a database and analysts use the data to identify trends in the company. In order to get the information from a database a server must be used.

Databases keep data stored in a language that personal computers do not speak. To retrieve the data, servers are used to translate the request into database language and retrieve the data. The server software will take in the definitions of the query and locate the data in the database. The results are returned to the user in a format that is easy to understand and read.

Servers perform the analysis that is involved with queries. A user may request a report to compare the performance of an employee versus the company average or other employees. After the server locates the information it performs the requested analysis. The data comes back in the requested manner and the user can see the results of the query in a clear, easy to understand visual representation.

Analysis Server Applications

There are many uses for analysis servers that can benefit a business. Analyzing data from the business operation will allow a user to form action plans to improve revenues and margins. Analysis of employee spending may locate employees that take liberty with company funds. Budget analysis may show wasteful spending that is causing operating costs to be artificially high. Sales analysis will help manage inventory and staffing needs by forecasting future sales. A company that fails to understand how the company and market operate will fail to be successful.