Dimensions are how data is organised in IBM Planning Analytics.
They describe the different ways you can view your data, such as who, what, where, and when. For example, a model might include dimensions for Accounts, Products, Customers, or Time.
Each dimension contains elements, which are the individual items within it. These can be simple lists or structured into hierarchies, allowing data to be grouped and totalled in different ways.
When multiple dimensions are combined, they form a cube. Each value in the cube sits at the intersection of elements from each dimension, giving every data point a clear structure and context. While all dimensions work in the same way, most models include common types such as Time (for dates and periods), Version (e.g. Actual, Budget, Forecast), and Measures (the values being analysed).
This is what makes Planning Analytics so flexible. You can easily switch between high-level summaries and detailed views, depending on what you need to see.
Dimensions are the foundation of any Planning Analytics model. Once you understand how they work, it becomes much easier to explore and trust your data.
If you’d like help making your data easier to navigate or your model easier to use, talk to us, we’re always happy to help.
