Hello,

Calendars are one of the first things developed when working with Qlik and most follow a similar format.

Often called “Master Calendar” the name misleads as best practice design means multiple calendars are often
required. http://community.qlik.com/docs/DOC-6502

Once you have a master calendar you’ll often find yourself creating complex set analysis to calculate date ranges or comparative calculations like Month to Date or Previous Month. You can find some good examples here http://community.qlik.com/docs/DOC-6163

This QVW describes an alternative way. The calendar here creates all possible combinations of dates and flags their relationship with each other.

Calendar

Here we can see it in action. The Date Selected combined with the Flag returns the Possible Key Dates which are linked to the fact table. The Set Analysis becomes very intuitive and easy to maintain:

Additional flags shown here you take the concept further.

This version takes the concept and by simplifying the code means its easier to understand and allows you to develop further to meet your individual requirements.

Development principles:

Firstly a standard Calendar is created using AutoGenerate. I also take the opportunity to incorporate Business Day flags (set by loading regional public holidays).

A Cartesian Product is then produced by left Joining Distinct Dates with itself without the key. This gives us all the possible date combinations.

I then create the flags; Firstly Point In Time Flags such as Today, This Week, This Month, etc. Then period flags such as Previous Day, Previous Month, Previous Month to Date, etc.

You can find the application on the QlikView community: http://community.qlik.com/docs/DOC-6593 

I hope this of some use to people, I would love to hear your comments and further suggestions.

Richard

Fun With Flags

I couldn’t resist using this picture for the post (from Wil Wheaton’s fan site)