---
title: "How to: Create a Cube in IBM Planning Analytics"
description: "By combining two or more dimensions, you can create a data cube. Within a [cube](https://www.aramar.co.uk/knowledge-share/ibm-planning-analytics/cube-viewer-in-planning-analytics-for-excel/), each intersection of dimension elements holds a value. This means every data point has its own unique set of coordinates, based on the elements selected…"
url: "https://www.aramar.co.uk/knowledge-share/ibm-planning-analytics/how-to-create-a-cube-in-ibm-planning-analytics/"
updated: "2026-04-02"
category: IBM Planning Analytics
---

# How to: Create a Cube in IBM Planning Analytics

By combining two or more dimensions, you can create a data cube. Within a [cube](https://www.aramar.co.uk/knowledge-share/ibm-planning-analytics/cube-viewer-in-planning-analytics-for-excel/), each intersection of dimension elements holds a value. This means every data point has its own unique set of coordinates, based on the elements selected from each dimension.

You can adjust how dimensions are arranged within the cube to view the data in different ways, depending on what you need to analyse.

Data within a cube will automatically aggregate through dimension hierarchies. This allows you to view summarised totals and then drill down into lower levels to explore more detailed data.

### Creating a Cube

To create a cube:

1. Open the **Data and Models** workbench
2. In the data tree, right-click on **Cubes**
3. Select **Create cube**

![](https://www.aramar.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Screenshot-2023-05-09-123604.png)

A **Create cube** panel will open on the right-hand side. From here:

- Enter a name for your cube
- Select the dimensions you want to include

![](https://www.aramar.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Screenshot-2023-05-09-123650.png)

To manage dimensions:

- Use the **right arrow** to add dimensions to the cube
- Use the **left arrow** to remove them
- Use the **up and down arrows** to change the order of dimensions

Once complete, click **Create** to save the cube.

### Deleting a Cube

To delete a cube:

1. Right-click on the cube in the data tree
2. Select **Delete cube**

Deleting a cube will permanently remove all data and any rules associated with it. The dimensions themselves will not be affected.

[YouTube video player](https://www.youtube.com/embed/_uWxKYT6GKE?si=9pIri3D1_jcCrd7w)

If you’d like help setting up or managing your cubes,[talk to us.](http://aramar.co.uk/contact/) We’re always happy to help.