The prevalent method for utilizing data in Power BI involves importing it into a Power BI semantic model. This entails storing the data within the Power BI file, subsequently publishing it alongside the Power BI reports. This approach streamlines direct interaction with the data. Nevertheless, its applicability may vary across different organizations.
In the given scenario, as you construct Power BI reports for Tailwind Traders' Sales department, avoiding data import becomes crucial. Your initial objective is to establish semantic models within Power BI, facilitating the creation of visuals and other report components. The Sales department possesses diverse semantic models of varying scales. Due to security constraints, incorporating local data copies into reports is prohibited, eliminating the option of direct data import. Consequently, the need arises to establish a direct connection to the Sales department's data source. The subsequent section outlines the methods to meet these business requirements when importing data into Power BI.
At times, security constraints or the sheer size of semantic models can hinder direct data imports. Loading large models into Power BI might lead to performance issues. To address these challenges, Power BI offers the DirectQuery storage mode. This mode enables querying data directly from the source without importing a copy into Power BI. DirectQuery is advantageous as it guarantees viewing the latest data version.
The available storage modes encompass:
Import
DirectQuery
Dual (Composite)
To choose storage modes, navigate to the Model view, pick a data table, and in the ensuing Properties pane, opt for the desired mode from the Storage mode dropdown, as illustrated in the accompanying visual.
Import Mode
In import mode, you can generate a local Power BI version of your semantic models derived from the data source. This storage mode grants access to all Power BI service functionalities, such as Q&A and Quick Insights. Data refreshes can be scheduled at specific intervals or initiated on demand. Import mode serves as the default choice when initiating new Power BI reports.
DirectQuery Mode
DirectQuery proves beneficial when avoiding local data storage is essential, preventing data caching. Instead, you can employ native Power BI queries to selectively retrieve necessary data from specific tables directly from the original data source. This establishes a direct connection, ensuring real-time access to the latest data and meeting security standards. This mode is particularly advantageous for handling large semantic models. By circumventing the need to load extensive data into Power BI, DirectQuery enhances performance and addresses data latency challenges.
Dual(Composite mode)
Dual mode in Power BI enables the selection of specific data for direct import while querying other data. Tables incorporated into your report result from a combination of both Import and DirectQuery modes. Utilizing Dual mode empowers Power BI to opt for the most efficient method of data retrieval.
SWETA SARANGI
20.02.2024