Semantic MediaWiki Ask API

[SFNative]

Im trying to make use of data found in a MediaWiki powered page. The API allows for pages to be queried but the only (recommended) output option is JSON (not remotely my strength). I know we can use JSON files as data sources, but the query (posted as a URL) returns JSON on a page. Is there anyway to get Power BI to read that output and use it as a data source? Throwing the query URL in as a web data source produces nothing. 

A Semantic MediaWiki Ask API data source type would be perfect, but it looks like no such thing exists.

[v-ljerr-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @SFNative,

With the Web connector, you should be able to get the content in the link that the API responses in JSON, and then extend JSON to a table in query editor. 

In addition, followings are some good article about how to use Power BI to call REST APIs and parse JSON. Could you go to check if it helps in your scenario? 

https://blogs.msdn.microsoft.com/charles_sterling/2016/05/25/how-to-call-rest-apis-and-parse-json-wi...

https://social.technet.microsoft.com/wiki/contents/articles/37512.create-power-bi-reports-from-json-...

Regards

[SFNative]

Thanks @v-ljerr-msft. That worked.

One question, though. Do I need to go through the steps to extend the JSON to a table whenever the data that would be returned in the JSON changes? I'm assuming so, but I wanted to double-check.

[WolfBiber]

What Data changes? the data itself inside JSON or the metadata (definition of fields?).

That the data changes is very, very common, because new data entries will be applied.

If the metadata changes everything should work also, as far the fields for transformations in later steps keep unchanged.

[SFNative]

It's the data in the JSON that changes.

So, to be clear, when the data on the site changes, the data in the JSON pulled as a data source would change with a refresh in Power BI?

[WolfBiber]

yes, as long certain metadata of the fields doesn't change.

But be aware that autorefresh datasets with parameterized web source isn't supported in PBI Service. 

But there are several work around that you can find i.e. here

Greetings

[SFNative]

Thanks, @WolfBiber. I'll check that out.