Forum Discussion
Matrix Multiple column sorting
I know this is an old post but I believe the accepted "solution" is incorrect (in the sense that you can achieve the desired outcome but not via a specific setting).
I have verified that this can be accomplished partially in a similar way to Pivot Tables in Excel*. In short, you must add the Row field(s) you want to sort by in order (typically from "inner" i.e. most detailed value to "outer" i.e. least detailed category). You have to sort the "Rows" column in the visualization after each row field entry. In the OP Example: 1) You would first add ONLY the Row Field = "Purpose" and then sort the "Rows" column in the desired order. 2) You would then add the "Beneficiary" row field and again sort the "Rows" column in the desired order (the "Purpose" field will remain sorted in the originally selected sort order. 3) You would then add the "Date" row field and again sort the "Rows" column in the desired order (the "Purpose" and "Beneficiary" fields will remain sorted in the originally selected sort order(s). and so on.
I have tested this on PBI Desktop "Version: 2.121.644.0 64-bit (September, 2023)".
*In Excel, you can programatically set the sort order of the Pivot table matrix row columns via VBA - through which you have full control of the visual.