More Questions from Database Processing for BIS

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

Database Database Processing for BIS Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    standard SQL only
  • B
    extensions to SQL only
  • C
    OLAP only
  • D
    both standard SQL and extensions to SQL

Answer

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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