Include open type columns option on odata feed import window

[elz]

Hello,

I have looked for a description of what this option does, but can't find one.

The only information that I could find was what was posted on a monthly update page, which i pasted below.
I don't know what that means.

The only thing that comes to mind when i hear "open type", is a type of font.
I'm hoping someone can let me know what this option does in this software.

"Enhanced OData connector – Option to import Open Type columns from OData feeds

The OData connector now supports importing Open Type columns from OData feeds. Prior to this update, such columns were not supported in Power BI Desktop. This option is exposed under the “Advanced Options” section in the OData connector dialog."

Thank you
Tracy

[v-yuezhe-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @elz,

In my opinion, this issue is an Odata issue rather than a Power BI Desktop issue.

Firstly, we need to clarify that what is open type column in Odata. Based on my research, an open type is a structured type that contains dynamic properties, in addition to any properties that are declared in the type definition. Open type makes your data model more flexible. For more details, please review the following blogs.

Open Types in OData v4 with ASP.NET Web API
[Tutorial & Sample] How to Use Open Type in OData

Secondly, if your Odata source contains the columns like Book, Press of the above blog, you are able to import them into Power BI Desktop June update or later version by selecting “include open type columns”  option.

Thanks,
Lydia Zhang

[elz]

hi lydia,

thank you for the links. they cleared up what "open type" means.

tracy