Essbase calculates attribute data dynamically at retrieval time, using members from a system-defined dimension created by Essbase. Using this dimension, you can apply different calculation functions, such as a sum or an average, to the same attribute. You can also perform specific calculations on members of attribute dimensions; for example, to determine profitability by ounce for products sized by the ounce.
The following information assumes that you understand the concepts of attribute dimensions and Essbase calculations, including dynamic calculations. See the following sections.