Tabular Model vs Tabular SQL

[vsudaya]

Hi all,

Which one is best approach in Report Studio when we use Tabular Model or Tabular SQL? Which one will give best performance.

Thanks in advance

vsud

[bdybldr]

I can't speak to the performance issue because I haven't tested it but I will tell you, once you use tabular SQL for a particular query or convert from tabular model to tabular SQL you can't convert it back to tabular model.  This can be very frustrating.

[Near]

Based on several tests that I've conducted, Tabular SQL is faster when using the Native or Pass-through setting.  However, I personally feel that if you are creating complex queries, tabular SQL should be avoided.   Not only does its use create a maintenance issue, it can create huge problems if the user is inexperienced. 

Usually, using tabular SQL is used because of poor model design and/or designed without taking the reporting needs into consideration. This is not always a fault of anyone because there will always be a need for reports that require complex queries. 

Depending on the selection of data elements, Cognos can produce some interesting SQL.  You may notice at times that Cognos will produce code that in fact makes multiple passes through a database.  If some cases these queries actually finish faster than handling the same problem in a conventional manner.

The fundamental principle I tend to live by is to keep the reports in ReportNet as simple as possible.  Complex query subjects can and perhaps should be made in the model.  Ultimately, this should be handled by the database when possible.

This might also bring up another issue...that of who owns the model???
???