How to create a static index/serial column

[shaebert]

Hello. I am looking to create a serial/index column in my table that is easy to reference when processing orders outside of Power BI. 

I have tried adding an index column to my table, but this does not work as the data being entered to the table changes (deleted/modified) from time to time. This left me with the index numbers shifting to different rows. Which made it useless when referencing outside of Power BI.  

I saw someone suggest hardcoding serial/index into the data source, in this case is excel. But this wouldn't work either as rows are automatically added to the data source (excel file). I would have to have a formula that would create an index so it could dynamically populate when rows are automatically added to the spreadsheet.  

I prefer to find a solution in Power BI if possible. And the solution needs to be easily referencable.    

[amitchandak · Accepted solution]

@shaebert , The best power solution is to add an index column in the power query. If that did not work then you should bring it from the source.

What you are looking is a primary key(incremental id) that can be best done at source.

[shaebert]

How can I dynamically do that in excel?

[shaebert]

I did some research and found a way to create a dynamic / incremental index/serial column following the formula described here: https://www.thoughtasylum.com/2013/06/29/Auto-Incrementing-in-Excel/