Top 4 Azure Maps Secrets in Power BI 🗺️✨ Map Magic!

In this edition of the Map Magic series, Greg Trzeciak dives into four powerful and lesser-known features of the Azure Maps visualization in Power BI. These features are designed to elevate geographic data analysis and provide practical, real-world insights for users working with location-based data.

Overview of the Dataset

Greg uses a dataset of U.S. bank failures spanning over 200 years. Initially displayed using a generic map visualization, he transitions to Azure Maps for enhanced capabilities. He emphasizes the importance of using city and state together for more accurate geographic plotting.

1. Range Selection Tool

• Accessed via the Selection Pane under Map Settings → Controls.
• Enables users to drop a pin and define a search radius by time or distance.
• Example: Greg demonstrates a 120-minute travel radius around Chicago, showing how the tool adapts based on urban vs. rural areas and traffic conditions.
• Ideal for logistics, service coverage, and accessibility analysis.

2. Traffic Layer

• Found in the Visualizations pane, this layer provides near real-time traffic data.
• Greg validates its accuracy by comparing it with other traffic tools.
• Useful for:
  • Checking traffic before commuting.
  • Analyzing shipment delays or route inefficiencies.
  • Enhancing reports with real-world context.
• Interactive bubbles show traffic conditions like stationary delays and estimated wait times.

3. 3D Column Layer

• Activated by toggling the 3D column layer in the visualization settings.
• Displays data as vertical bars, adding a visual dimension to geographic metrics.
• Greg switches between city/state and state-level views to demonstrate how aggregation affects the 3D display.
• While 3D visuals can be distracting, they are effective for highlighting volume differences across regions.

4. Reference Layers

• Allows users to overlay GeoJSON files onto Azure Maps.
• Greg uploads a census tract file for Colorado, showing how to visualize demographic boundaries alongside bank failure data.
• Tips:
  • Ensure the file is in .geojson format (not just .json).
  • Use Microsoft’s sample files or create your own for custom overlays.
• Great for adding context like population density, zoning, or service areas.

Final Thoughts

Greg wraps up by encouraging viewers to explore these features further through Pragmatic Works’ Advanced Power BI Bootcamp, where he teaches in-depth mapping techniques and custom visualizations. These four Azure Maps secrets—range selection, traffic layer, 3D columns, and reference layers—can significantly enhance the storytelling power of geographic data in Power BI.

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.