Unlocking Paginated Reports: Connecting Lakehouse Tables in Power BI Report Builder

Austin Libal, a veteran trainer specializing in Microsoft Fabric and Power BI, recently showcased two effective methods to connect to Lakehouse tables using Power BI Report Builder. This powerful tool is essential for creating paginated reports that offer pixel-perfect formatting, ideal for printing or exporting to PDF with precise control. Connecting reports to a central… Read More

Unlocking Power BI’s Modern Visual Tooltips: A Game-Changing Feature for Drill Through and Drill Down

If you haven’t yet explored the modern visual tooltip preview feature in Power BI, now is the perfect time to start. This innovative functionality significantly enhances user experience by making drill through and drill down capabilities more intuitive and accessible within your reports. In the evolving landscape of data analytics, user interface innovation plays a… Read More

Power BI Text Search Slicer: Problem, Approach, and Solution Explained

In this edition of the “Problem, Approach, Solution” series, we’ll explore how to implement text search functionality using slicers in Power BI, mimicking a SQL “LIKE” search. For a detailed walkthrough, there is a video tutorial linked at the end under “Resources.” Addressing the Limitations of Default Slicer Functionality in Power BI Power BI is… Read More

Introduction to Azure Databricks: A Beginner’s Guide

Azure Databricks represents one of the most powerful and versatile unified analytics platforms available in the modern cloud data ecosystem, combining the distributed computing capabilities of Apache Spark with an optimized cloud-native environment built specifically for the Microsoft Azure platform, and wrapping both in a collaborative notebook-based development experience that makes sophisticated data engineering, data… Read More

Understanding Azure SQL Database Reserved Capacity for Cost Savings

Last week, I discussed the Azure Reserved VM Instances and how they help save money. Similarly, Azure offers SQL Database Reserved Capacity, a powerful option to reduce your cloud expenses by up to 33% compared to the license-included pricing model. This savings comes by pre-purchasing SQL Database v-cores for either a 1-year or 3-year commitment.… Read More

Exploring Visual Calculations in Power BI: A New Era of Data Analysis

In a recent video released on the YouTube channel, Senior Trainer Mitchell Pearson unveils the innovative visual calculations feature in Power BI, designed to simplify complex data analysis by minimizing the need for advanced DAX formulas. Unlocking the Power of Visual Calculations in Power BI Power BI has long been a frontrunner in business intelligence… Read More

Exploring Image Recognition with Azure Computer Vision API

In this article, we dive into the powerful features of the Azure Computer Vision API and explore how it can transform your approach to image analysis and recognition. In the age of artificial intelligence and intelligent automation, image analysis has moved far beyond simple pattern recognition. Microsoft’s Azure Computer Vision API stands at the forefront… Read More

MO-200 Microsoft Excel Certification: Preview of the Ultimate Prep Course

The MO-200 Microsoft Excel Associate certification is an entry-level credential issued by Microsoft that validates a candidate’s ability to perform fundamental and intermediate Excel tasks that are expected of business professionals who use spreadsheets regularly in their daily work. It is part of the Microsoft Office Specialist certification program that has been a recognized standard… Read More

Power BI Custom Visuals Explained: Using the Mekko Chart

In this tutorial, you will discover how to effectively use the Mekko Chart, a powerful custom visual available in Power BI. The Mekko Chart is ideal for comparing two distinct dimensions within a single, intuitive chart. The Mekko Chart, also known as a Marimekko chart, is an advanced and visually compelling data visualization tool available… Read More

Understanding Direct Query Constraints in Power BI

Are you encountering challenges with Direct Query in Power BI due to its inherent limitations? In this post, I’ll share some practical tips to help you overcome these common obstacles and enhance your data reporting experience using Direct Query mode. Power BI’s Direct Query mode provides the advantage of real-time data access without the need… Read More

Moving from Traditional Data Architectures to Azure-Based Solutions

In this article, I’ll explore the shift from classic Microsoft data tools like SSIS, SSAS, and SSRS to the modern Azure data ecosystem. If you’re transitioning from on-premises SQL Server environments to Azure’s cloud-native services, this guide will serve as a valuable roadmap. In today’s rapidly evolving data landscape, organizations are increasingly considering the shift… Read More

Essential Guide to Migrating from Teradata to Azure SQL

Are you planning to migrate your data from Teradata to Azure SQL in the cloud? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the critical steps to ensure a smooth and successful migration process. Migrating from Teradata to Azure SQL is a complex, multifaceted process that requires meticulous preparation and strategic planning to ensure a seamless… Read More

Mastering Running Totals in Power BI Using Variables, CALCULATE, and FILTER

Following a recent private training session, I received an insightful question from one of the participants. He wanted to know how to calculate a running total for a column of values in Power BI. My initial recommendation was to use the DAX function TOTALYTD (Year To Date), which, when combined with a date column, continuously… Read More

Understanding Running Totals in Power BI Using DAX Variables, CALCULATE, and FILTER

After a recent private training session, one participant reached out with a great question: How can you create a running total for a column of values in Power BI? My first thought was to use the built-in DAX function TOTALYTD, which sums values over time within a calendar year based on a date column. This… Read More

Introduction to Azure Analysis Services: Unlocking Scalable Data Modeling in the Cloud

If you’re leveraging the Azure ecosystem, Azure Analysis Services should be an essential part of your data strategy. This powerful service offers scalable resources tailored to your business needs, seamless integration with popular visualization tools like Power BI, and robust governance and deployment options to confidently deliver your BI solutions. Azure Analysis Services stands out… Read More