The OLAP Council APB-1 performance benchmark contains examples of how time is used in OLAP applications. Smoothed sales are computed as a three month moving average. Inventory is aggregated as an ending balance. Benefits Successful OLAP applications increase the productivity of business managers, developers, and whole organizations. The inherent flexibility of OLAP systems means business users of OLAP applications can become more self-sufficient.
Managers are no longer dependent on IT to make schema changes, to create joins, or worse.
Perhaps more importantly, OLAP enables managers to model problems that would be impossible using less flexible systems with lengthy and inconsistent response times. More control and timely access to strategic information equal more effective decision-making. IT developers also benefit from using the right OLAP software. Although it is possible to build an OLAP system using software designed for transaction processing or data collection, it is certainly not a very efficient use of developer time. By using software specifically designed for OLAP, developers can deliver applications to business users faster, providing better service.