How to create a side-by-side dynamic table layout (two category groups with same unit columns)

[Mahendra_k]

Hi everyone,

I want to create a dynamic visual in Power BI that shows two sets of categories side-by-side with the same unit columns. The layout I want to achieve (visually) is:

Left block:
Category: Cat1, Cat2, Cat3
Columns: Unit1, Unit2, Unit3

Right block:
Category: Cat4, Cat5, Cat6, Cat7, Cat8
Columns: Unit1, Unit2, Unit3

Example of desired visual (conceptual):
Row 1: Cat1 120 135 140 | Cat4 180 761 90
Row 2: Cat2 95 110 102 | Cat5 160 158 165
Row 3: Cat3 150 142 130 | Cat6 145 149 150
Row 4: (empty left) | Cat7 147 191 135
Row 5: (empty left) | Cat8 247 291 235

Requirements:
1) The left side should show the first N categories (for example N=3).
2) The right side should show the next categories.
3) Both sides must have identical Unit1–Unit3 columns.
4) The layout must be dynamic and respond to slicers/filters (Region, Year, etc.).
5) Prefer a single visual if possible; if not, an approach that looks like a single table (e.g., synchronized visuals) is acceptable.
6) I tried a calculated table (UNION/ADDCOLUMNS) but it is static and does not respond to slicers.

Questions:
- Is there a recommended approach using measures and visuals so the layout remains dynamic?
- Is using two synchronized Matrix visuals the best practice, or is there a custom visual/workaround that provides a single visual with side-by-side grouping?
- If using measures, can someone share DAX patterns to dynamically pair categories into left/right columns while staying reactive to slicers?

[v-ssriganesh · Accepted solution]

Hello @Mahendra_k,
Thank you for posting your query in the Microsoft Fabric Community Forum.

I’ve reproduced your exact requirement in Power BI Desktop using your sample layout and data logic. The side-by-side dynamic table with identical Unit1–Unit3 columns is fully working in a single visual and responds perfectly to slicers (Region, Year). For your reference, I’ve attached the .pbix file.

If I misunderstand your needs or you still have problems on it, please feel free to let us know. 
Thanks,
Ganesh Singamshetty.

[lbendlin]

That requirement goes against the Power BI design philosophy, hard.  It's possible to create "TOP N and Others"  visuals but they have very different formats.

Showing the top 5 products and Other row - SQLBI

Filtering the top products alongside the other products in Power BI - SQLBI

What you can do is use two visuals side by side.  One for the TOP N, the other for the rest.  Use measures as visual filters.

[danextian]

Hi @Mahendra_k 

You might need to use a disconnected table containing a column with values that become visible depending on certain condition using a measure. But it is honestly hard to picture out what layout you're aiming for with just those descriptions. It would be eaiser for anyone in the community to help you had you provided a workable sample data (not an image) -  a link to an Excel file or a pbix stored in the cloud and the expected result using the same sample data which you can layout in Excel.