Building a Data Dictionary for a Tabular Model

Question

I used to have some SQL Server queries I could use to create a bus matrix & data dictionary from my old MDX cube through a linked server. We are now using Tabular Models in Azure Analysis Services and I was wondering if there are a similar set of queries that could be used to generate a Data Dictionary in Excel using SQL/MDX/DAX/XMLA/whatever off the metadata in the Tabular Model (e.g. description property, names of tables etc.). The Tabular model still uses a Kimball style Dimensional Model so I will be able to distinguish dimensions and facts from the naming convention used. Alternatively, are there any 3rd party documentation tools that would do this for me and if so what would you recommend?

Answer 1

Hi @Andrew Blyth , Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum and thanks for reaching out here.

1. Not sure if you have got a chance to go through this article by a community volunteer. See if that is what you are looking for : DATA DICTIONARY USING DMV QUERIES. This utilizes DMV queries to build the data dictionary.
2. You can explore Tabular Model Explorer which helps you navigate metadata objects in tabular models.
3. Since you are open for third party or open source tools. Please try the below:
   BISM Normalizer
   Extract Model Metadata

Hope this helps.