Business Intelligence (BI) reporting analyses can be executed using what query capabilities in relational databases? Select the single best answer.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: both standard SQL and extensions to SQL

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
BI reporting transforms raw data into meaningful summaries and dashboards. Many required aggregations—totals, averages, groupings—are achievable with ANSI SQL. More advanced multi-dimensional summaries are often simplified by SQL extensions (e.g., GROUPING SETS, CUBE, ROLLUP).



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Relational data warehouse or data mart.
  • Need to produce standard and multi-level aggregations.
  • Tooling may range from plain SQL editors to OLAP-aware engines.


Concept / Approach:

Standard SQL provides SELECT, GROUP BY, HAVING, and window functions for many reports. Extensions such as CUBE/ROLLUP/GROUPING SETS enable multi-hierarchy totals in a single query, reducing query proliferation and simplifying pivot-like outputs directly from the database.



Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Recognize that ordinary reports (grouped totals) are expressible in standard SQL.2) Identify that multi-dimensional subtotaling is easier with SQL extensions.3) Conclude that both are valid and commonly used together in BI reporting.


Verification / Alternative check:

Examine typical BI SQL: a base GROUP BY for detail, plus ROLLUP for totals or CUBE for all combinations—both coexist in production systems.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Standard only: ignores powerful extensions. Extensions only: basic reports do not require them. OLAP only: BI reporting is broader than OLAP and often SQL-driven.



Common Pitfalls:

Duplicating queries for each subtotal instead of using GROUPING SETS; overlooking window functions for running totals, ranks, and percent-of-total calculations.



Final Answer:

both standard SQL and extensions to SQL

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