Semantic model - create calculated column

[lafakios]

Hi!

I am not so experienced with Semantic models at PowerBI and I would like to get some help.

I need to import a Semantic Model.

The semantic model cannot be used as such, I will need to create calculated columns with logic required for the visualizations.

After investigating at the Desktop, I have seen that it is not straight forward to add a calculated column, only measures.

Even adding measures seems to have limitations.

Could you please advise how to overcome this limitation?

I have also seen that if I switch to DirectQuery, this might become possible.

However the needed calculations require a lot of data and they may time out.

Regards,

Akis

[ray_aramburo · Accepted solution]

You can't import a semantic model, to perform additional transformations in it, you need to change from Live Connection to Direct Query, precisely as you mention. If you don't want to change that, you have no other choice than to work with a copy of the semantic model, if you have it then that's great, if not, explain your case to the semantic model owner and request him a copy.

[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

Hello @lafakios ,

Thank you for your question, also thank you @ray_aramburo  for the helpful input.

As mentioned, Live Connection mode limits you to measures and doesn't allow adding calculated columns. To perform those calculations, you’ll need to switch to DirectQuery mode, which provides more flexibility.

However, as @ray_aramburo pointed out, DirectQuery may impact performance with large datasets. If performance becomes an issue, you could ask the owner of the semantic model for a copy to import locally and perform the calculations directly. Alternatively, consider using a composite model for a balance of performance and flexibility.

If this post helps, then please give us Kudos and consider Accept it as a solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

Thankyou.

[Anonymous]

Hi @lafakios   ,

I wanted to check if you had the opportunity to review the information provided. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions. If my response has addressed your query, please accept it as a solution and give a 'Kudos' so other members can easily find it.

Thank you.

[ray_aramburo · Accepted solution]

You can't import a semantic model, to perform additional transformations in it, you need to change from Live Connection to Direct Query, precisely as you mention. If you don't want to change that, you have no other choice than to work with a copy of the semantic model, if you have it then that's great, if not, explain your case to the semantic model owner and request him a copy.