Hi,
we can use the BICS connection create the BO webi reports - it is the improve the performence and better comparetive all connections.
about row and column level rescrtiction perform the all activity in BEx designer and import to BO webi tool.
if you create the BICS connection no need go for the universe design.
if you want more informaion about resctriciton post the same question under - sap bo - web intelligence.
Thanks,
Phani.