Semantic Model

[AparnaJ]

Hi,

Question on Semantic Model. Trying to consume two semantic models, once they are imported into the desktop pbix, connection is changing to "Direct Query". Is there a work around to make this as "Live" or "Import" ?

[v-bmanikante]

Hi @AparnaJ ,

May I ask if you have gotten this issue resolved?

If it is solved, please mark the helpful reply or share your solution and accept it as solution, it will be helpful for other members of the community who have similar problems as yours to solve it faster.

Regards,

B Manikanteswara Reddy

[v-bmanikante]

Hi @AparnaJ ,

As we haven’t heard back from you, we wanted to kindly follow up to check if the solution provided for the issue worked? or Let us know if you need any further assistance?

If our response addressed, please mark it as Accept as solution and click Yes if you found it helpful.

Regards,

B Manikanteswara Reddy

[v-bmanikante]

Hi @AparnaJ ,

May I ask if you have gotten this issue resolved?

If it is solved, please mark the helpful reply or share your solution and accept it as solution, it will be helpful for other members of the community who have similar problems as yours to solve it faster.

Regards,

B Manikanteswara Reddy

[Ritaf1983 · Accepted solution]

Hi @AparnaJ 

Hi Aparna,

When connecting to Semantic Models via Power BI Desktop, the default connection mode is DirectQuery – and unfortunately, it cannot be changed to Import or Live, especially when more than one model is involved.

Possible alternatives (depending on your scenario):

1. Composite Model – This allows combining multiple datasets (semantic models). This is essentially what Power BI is doing in the background when you add more than one model.
   Official Microsoft documentation on Composite Models

2. Dataflows – If you control the data source, consider using Power BI Dataflows as a shared ETL layer that feeds multiple reports, instead of connecting directly to existing models.
   Introduction to Dataflows - Microsoft Learn

 A quick video on combining datasets using composite models:
Managing Multiple Datasets - Guy in a Cube

If this post helps, then please consider Accepting it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly

[lbendlin]

"Live" only works with a single data source.

What you have now is "Mixed" mode - Direct Query with local data model. That local data model behaves a little bit like Import Mode.

So - No on reverting back to "Live" - not possible 

And - "eh" on Import Mode.  You kinda have that already. Don't push it though, performance will get worse if you abuse that.