In most data sets, existing data tends to follow predictable patterns of density and sparsity. If you match patterns correctly, you can store the existing data in a reasonable number of fairly dense data blocks, rather than in many highly sparse data blocks.
By default, a new dimension is set sparse. To help you determine whether dimensions should be dense or sparse, Essbase provides an automatic configuration feature.
To select automatic configuration of dense and sparse dimensions, see “Setting Dimensions as Dense or Sparse” in the Oracle Essbase Administration Services Online Help.
Essbase can make recommendations for the sparse-dense configuration of dimensions based on the following factors:
You can apply a recommended configuration, or you can turn off automatic configuration and manually set the sparse or dense property for each dimension. Attribute dimensions are always sparse dimensions. Keep in mind that you can associate attribute dimensions only with sparse standard dimensions.