How MicroStrategy Processes Functions

MicroStrategy Intelligence Server has an engine component, which comprises the following:

• SQL Engine: Generates the SQL and associated logic for functions performed by the database, and communicates with the Analytical Engine as necessary.
• Query Engine: Sends the SQL generated by the SQL Engine to the data warehouse for execution.
• Analytical Engine: Extends the capability of the system beyond what the RDBMS provides. For example, it performs complex calculations on a result set returned from the data warehouse, such as statistical and financial functions, subtotal calculations on the result set, metric calculations that are not or cannot be performed using SQL, such as complex functions, and so on.

While this extends the capabilities of the RDBMS that you are using, calculations that require the Analytical Engine can require additional system resources and processing time. To determine if a function is supported by your RDBMS or will be evaluated by the Analytical Engine, review the function support listed in MicroStrategy and Database Support for Functions.