Moving Semantic Model

Moving a large semantic model (50 GB) from a Dev to a Prod workspace in Power BI without using a PBIX file is necessary here due to dataset size. When working with models this large (typically Direct Lake or Import mode on Fabric), PBIX import/export is not viable due to file size limitations and platform restrictions.

Option 1: Deployment Pipelines

• You must have Power BI Premium or Fabric Capacity.
• Both workspaces must be assigned to a capacity.
• Your dataset must be deployed using Power BI datasets, not AS models or third-party tools.

 Steps:

1. In Power BI Service, create a Deployment Pipeline (Dev > Test > Prod).
2. Add your Dev workspace to the pipeline as the Development stage.
3. Assign the Prod workspace to the Production stage.
4. Run a deployment from Dev to Prod.
• This will copy dataset + data (unlike PBIX export).
• You can configure rules to parameterize things like data sources.
5. Confirm the deployed dataset appears and is functional in the Prod workspace.

Option 2: XMLA Endpoint – Backup and Restore via SSMS

Only valid for Fabric/Premium workspaces with XMLA Read/Write enabled.

• Premium/Fabric Capacity workspace
• XMLA endpoints must be read/write enabled
• You need SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) installed.

Steps:

1. Connect to powerbi://api.powerbi.com/v1.0/myorg/{workspaceName} in SSMS.
2. Locate the model in the Dev workspace, right-click > Back Up to a .abf file.
3. Connect to the Prod workspace via SSMS.
4. Right-click > Restore > Provide the .abf file and specify a new or existing name.

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