It is possible to reuse your Power BI semantic model (dataset) in paginated reports, but there are certain things to keep in mind and things to do. Here's how it operates and some things to remember:
1. Making Use of Power BI Datasets in Reports with Pagination:
Direct Access to the Power BI Dataset: Power BI Paginated Reports A Power BI dataset can be used as a data source in Report Builder. This eliminates the need to recreate the underlying data model and enables you to reuse your Power BI-created semantic model (the dataset).
Live Connection: When a Power BI dataset is accessed through Paginated Reports, the report makes a direct query to the dataset, guaranteeing that the measures, tables, relationships, and computations you have specified in your Power BI model are being used.
2. Advantages of Using Power BI Semantic Models Again in Paginated Reports:
Consistency: You can ensure that the same logic, metrics, and relationships are used in both Power BI reports and Paginated Reports by reusing the same dataset.
Data Governance: Because the Paginated Report automatically updates when changes are made to the Power BI dataset (for example, by adding new measures or altering preexisting calculations), this reuse helps with data governance. It improves control and oversight by eliminating the need to maintain distinct data models.
Makes Maintenance Easier: Power BI updates, and modifications to the dataset eliminate the need for separate Paginated Report adjustments. This keeps data definitions centralized and streamlines report management.
3. Reuse Considerations:
Access and Permissions: Verify that users are authorized to access the Power BI dataset from Paginated Reports. To use the dataset in the paginated report, they need to have read access to it in Power BI at the very least.
Limitations in Report Builder: Although Power BI datasets can be linked to Paginated Reports, some Power BI features—such as intricate visuals or interactive components—might not work flawlessly in Paginated Reports. Nonetheless, the fundamental semantic model—which includes tables and measures—remains reusable.
4. Data Governance Implications:
Model of Centralized Data: Data governance procedures are applied uniformly across report types when the Power BI semantic model is reused. Replicating data models or computations is not necessary.
Audit and Compliance: Since both Power BI and Paginated Reports use the same semantic model, this approach helps ensure consistent data handling for auditing and compliance purposes, as all reports reflect the same rules and data logic.
