Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst AssociatePrepare the dataMedium
A data modeler is preparing a Power BI report that combines sales data from an Azure SQL Database with product catalog information from an Excel file stored in SharePoint Online. The product catalog file is updated weekly. The sales data, however, is continuously updated, and the report must reflect the latest sales figures as quickly as possible. To optimize performance and ensure data freshness, how should these two data sources be configured in Power BI?
- ASales data in DirectQuery, Product Catalog in Import mode.
- BBoth sources in DirectQuery mode.
- CSales data in Import mode, Product Catalog in DirectQuery.
- DBoth sources in Import mode with scheduled refresh.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Sales data in DirectQuery, Product Catalog in Import mode.
Sales data requires 'latest figures as quickly as possible', indicating DirectQuery for real-time updates. The product catalog is 'updated weekly' and doesn't need real-time, so Import mode is suitable for better performance. This combination leverages the strengths of both modes.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. DirectQuery for product catalog (updated weekly) is unnecessary and could lead to slower queries without benefiting from real-time data.
- C. Import for sales would not provide the required real-time freshness, and DirectQuery for a weekly updated catalog is inefficient.
- D. Import mode for sales data would not provide 'latest figures as quickly as possible' and would require frequent, resource-intensive refreshes.
Hybrid Data Connectivity
Hybrid data connectivity in Power BI involves combining different storage modes (e.g., DirectQuery and Import) for different tables within a single data model to optimize for both performance and data freshness requirements.
- Combines Import and DirectQuery modes.
- Optimizes performance for static data, delivers freshness for dynamic data.
- Requires careful consideration of data update frequency and query needs.
Memory trick: Freshness for fast, Performance for stable.