In this article, I will be providing detailed instructions on how to create dummy MicroStrategy attributes with either a fixed text or number value. In some of my past projects, I have used these attributes as placeholders in Report Services Documents to create spacing in grids, among other data visualization hacks where a fixed attribute value is required.
Once created, the attribute will return the assigned fixed value for every row of data. To avoid any possibility of cross joins in the grid report SQL query, use a common dimension table (like a calendar dimension) as the Source table for the dummy attribute.
To create an attribute in MicroStrategy with a fixed TEXT value, follow the steps below:
1 – In MicroStrategy Developer, navigate to the folder where you wish to create the attribute, right-click in it and select New > Attribute.
2 – In the Form Expression window, select a Source table, in this case I am using the calendar dimension (LU_DAY) as the Source table.
3 – Copy and paste the pass-through expression code below into the Form expression and change N/A to your desired text value.
ApplySimple(" 'N/A' ",0)
4 – Select Manual as the Mapping method.
5 – Click the Validate button to make sure the expression is valid.
6 – Click OK, then set LU_DAY as the Source table.
7 – Save the Attribute.
8 – Update Schema.
To create an attribute in MicroStrategy with a fixed NUMBER value, follow the steps below:
1 – In MicroStrategy Developer, navigate to the folder where you wish to create the attribute, right-click in it and select New > Attribute.
2 – In the Form Expression window, select a Source table, in this case I am using the calendar dimension (LU_DAY) as the Source table.
3 – Enter the desired number value in the Form expression: 12345.
4 – Select Manual as the Mapping method.
5 – Click the Validate button to make sure the expression is valid.
6 – Click OK, then set LU_DAY as the Source table.
7 – Save the Attribute.
8 – Update Schema.
Helpful Links: Creating Attributes and MicroStrategy Project Design Guide
