Data Safari: Is This The New Way To Explore In Power BI?

The new "Explore This Data" feature in Power BI introduces a dynamic way to interact with and analyze your reports without altering the original dataset. In this tutorial, Greg Trzeciak from Pragmatic Works breaks down how to use this preview feature, its capabilities, and some of its current limitations.

What is the "Explore This Data" Feature?

"Explore This Data" allows users to investigate data points, create new visuals, and ask questions directly within Power BI Service. This interactive feature empowers users to explore datasets without modifying the main report, making it ideal for ad-hoc analysis and deeper insights.

Where to Find "Explore This Data"

You can access the feature in three primary locations:

• Within a Published Report: Click the binocular icon to launch the feature.
• In a Workspace: Access the three-dot menu next to a semantic model.
• Within a Data Mart: Ideal for ad-hoc data exploration on shared datasets.

How to Use "Explore This Data"

Once launched, users have two ways to interact with the data:

1. Matrix View: A table-style layout displaying data in rows and columns.
2. Visual View: A graphical interface where you can create charts and visuals directly.

Greg demonstrates how to add fields like "Year" and "Sales" to build a matrix and filter data using simple controls. The feature also includes a Lightning Bolt option that automatically selects the most suitable visual for the data, making it even more user-friendly.

Saving and Sharing Limitations

While "Explore This Data" offers excellent flexibility, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:

• Saving Explorations: Saving an exploration requires a Premium Per Capacity workspace or a Fabric-enabled workspace.
• Save as Report: Users can save their exploration as a separate report, even in non-premium workspaces.
• Sharing: To share an exploration, the recipient must have access to both the report and the underlying semantic model.

Key Benefits of "Explore This Data"

This feature enhances Power BI’s self-service capabilities by:

• Allowing users to perform ad-hoc analysis without modifying the original report.
• Providing both matrix and visual exploration options.
• Streamlining data discovery with built-in visual recommendations.

Conclusion

The "Explore This Data" feature in Power BI is a game-changer for users seeking deeper insights without altering their primary reports. While some premium restrictions exist, the flexibility and interactive nature of this tool make it a powerful addition to Power BI’s suite of features. Explore the feature today and unlock new ways to visualize your data. 

Don't forget to check out the Pragmatic Works' on-demand learning platform for more insightful content and training sessions on Power BI and other Microsoft applications. Be sure to subscribe to the Pragmatic Works YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on the latest tips and tricks.