How to replace a live connection with power bi dataset

[geertvanhove]

We have created a number of complex reports using live connection to a tabular datamodel.

After publishing, each report turns out to have a dedicated power bi dataset.

This is very confusing for users who want to use a dataset for self-service BI afterwards.

We now want to generate one dataset containing all objects in the tabular model and have all other reports connect to this shared dataset. So only one dataset remains that can be used for all current and new reports.

Is it possible to modify an existing report (that currently uses a live connection to a tabular model) to use a predefined dataset instead?

Many thanks

[jdbuchanan71 · Accepted solution]

It is possible, yes.

1. Create a new blank .pbix file that you link to your SSAS model.
2. Save the file as something you will know is the main source, my test file was called 'Master_Data'
3. Publish this to your workspace.

This is the source that all your reports will use as their source.

Next you will need the PowerShell script from this article.

https://powerbi.tips/2020/05/hot-swap-power-bi-report-connections/

It strips out all the connections from an existing .pbix file.

When you run the script you will be prompted to select a file, that will be one of your existing reports you want to swap over to the new dataset.  I suggest making a copy of the report to start with for testing.

It will then open the file and all your visuals will be broken:

Now got to Get Data > Power BI datasets and choose the Master_Data you published in the first steps (or whatever you called it)

Then click 'Create'. 

If it all works your visuals should populate and all be linked to the new PowerBI dataset.

Your reports all point to the single PowerBI Master_Data set and that points to your SSAS.

[jdbuchanan71 · Accepted solution]

It is possible, yes.

1. Create a new blank .pbix file that you link to your SSAS model.
2. Save the file as something you will know is the main source, my test file was called 'Master_Data'
3. Publish this to your workspace.

This is the source that all your reports will use as their source.

Next you will need the PowerShell script from this article.

https://powerbi.tips/2020/05/hot-swap-power-bi-report-connections/

It strips out all the connections from an existing .pbix file.

When you run the script you will be prompted to select a file, that will be one of your existing reports you want to swap over to the new dataset.  I suggest making a copy of the report to start with for testing.

It will then open the file and all your visuals will be broken:

Now got to Get Data > Power BI datasets and choose the Master_Data you published in the first steps (or whatever you called it)

Then click 'Create'. 

If it all works your visuals should populate and all be linked to the new PowerBI dataset.

Your reports all point to the single PowerBI Master_Data set and that points to your SSAS.

[geertvanhove · Accepted solution]

This is exactly what I needed.

Many, many thanks