Using Essbase SubVars as Filters in OAC

I had a question from a ‘customer friend’, Sam, ask about how we can utilize values in Essbase SubVars as variables in OAC Analyses and Dashboards. Here’s how you do it…

1. Just to validate, the SubVars are located in Essbase on the “Variables” tab at either the database or application level (application level shown below).
2. In your OAC RPD, open the variables screen by clicking “Manage” -> “Variables”.
3. You will see under “Initialization Blocks” a line starting with “SUB_VAR_BLOCK…”. Right-click and choose “Properties” to edit that variable.
4. You can rename this if you would like. Also, the “Variable Targets” are listed automatically for you. These targets are the Sub Vars in Essbase. The Default Initializer is the default value for the variable and are initially blank.

   I have renamed my connection to “Essbase” to make it less ugly.

   

5. Click on the first variable and choose “Edit Data Target…”.
6. Rename this (if you would like) and give it a default value and click “OK”.
7. Once done for all, click “OK”.
8. Now, click “Test…” to see if the values update.
9. Save and publish your RPD to OAC.
10. In OAC, in the Answers -> Criteria tab, create a new filter:

    Choose the dimension for the variable (Year in my example) and select “Add More Options” and select “Repository Variable”.

    

11. Enter the variable name from the RPD and click “OK”.
12. Add in your other pieces to your analysis then click Results.
13. Voila!