Power BI - Overview and FAQ
WHAT IS POWER BI
Power BI is a Microsoft tool that helps users visualize data and create interactive reports. Power BI is designed to be used by anyone, not just data experts. Power BI can connect to a wide variety of data sources, including Excel and CSV Files, Databases, Microsoft Fabric, Power Platform, Azure, Online Services and others. Here is an overview of the service from Microsoft:
What is Power BI? Overview of Components and Benefits - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
What is difference between Power BI Desktop and Power BI Service?
Power BI Desktop is a local application for creating reports and data models, while Power BI Service is a cloud-based platform for sharing, collaborating, and accessing those reports online.
Explore Power BI Desktop by clicking here.
To download the Power BI Desktop application, you will find the download by clicking here.
In order to install it, you will need to have admin rights on your TSC managed computer. Please contact the Service Desk to request access.
For the Power BI Web version, click here.
LOGIN/ACCESS
Why is the Power BI desktop is not loading properly?
Update Power BI Desktop: Ensure you’re using latest version of Power BI Desktop. Outdated versions may have compatibility issues. You can download the latest version from this link. Remember, you will need to have administrative rights on your computer.
Do I need to be connected via VPN to view a Power BI report?
No, a VPN connection is not required to view reports.
What are the supported browsers for the Power BI?
Power BI works best with the following browsers:
- Microsoft Edge: Recommended for optimal performance.
- Google Chrome: Works well with Power BI.
- Safari: Supported on macOS for Power BI users.
- Mozilla Firefox: Officially supported, but may render fonts differently.
- Opera: Can also be used for Power BI access.
Note: Internet Explorer is no longer supported by Power BI and is not recommended for use.
I am a student, Can I use Power BI?
You can use Power BI for personal use. You can connect to data and build amazing reports in Power BI Desktop for your own analysis. However, you cannot share this interactive content with other users in the Power BI service or view content shared by others.
WORKING WITH POWER BI REPORTS
Can I export report in Excel/CSV format?
No, this feature is currently disabled. If you require this feature for analysis, please contact TSC.
What are the causes of a slowed-down report or dashboard?
· Large Datasets: Heavy data loads and complex transformations can slow performance.
· Inefficient Data Model: Poorly structured models with redundant or complex relationships reduce speed.
· Complex DAX Calculations: Heavy DAX formulas can bottleneck performance.
· Too Many Visuals/Filters: Overloading reports with visuals increases processing time.
How to fix Power BI report performance
· Use Performance Analyzer: Your first step should be to utilize the built-in Performance Analyzer (View > Performance Analyzer) to identify which visuals or DAX queries are causing slowdowns.
· Reduce Visuals Per Page: Next, consider keeping fewer than 10 visuals per page. Use bookmarks, drill-throughs, or tab-based navigation to logically split content.
· Optimize DAX Measures: Use VAR, SUMMARIZE COLUMNS, and measure branching to simplify logic and reduce compute time.
· Use Aggregation Tables: Summarize large fact tables by key dimensions, such as Month or Region, to reduce load time.
What causes broken visuals in a report?
· The column or field you used in the visual was renamed or deleted.
· There's no relationship between your tables.
· Filters or slicers are removing all the data behind the scenes.
· The visual is too complex and takes too long to load.
What are the causes of data refresh failures?
· The data file was possibly moved, renamed, or deleted.
· Your login expired or changed.
· There’s a network issue or gateway problem.
· The source data has too many rows and takes too long to load.
· A change in the data structure (like a renamed column) breaks the connection.
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT
Are there any additional resources for Power BI training?
Microsoft has published a significant amount of valuable documentation about Power BI and associated training resources.
What is Power BI? Overview of Components and Benefits - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
Training for Power BI | Microsoft Learn