Switching Power BI datasets with Project File (.pbip)

[etheil]

When saving a Power BI report (.pbix) as a project file (.pbip), Power BI desktop no longer allows for switching the data source if connected to a power bi dataset (the message "A DirectQuery connection is required" is displayed).

As an example, if I am working on a report in Power BI desktop that connects to a power bi datatset in the power bi service and then save that pbix file as a pbip file, I can no longer change the data source to a different power bi dataset. Pbix files allow the user to switch the Power BI dataset to which the report is connected, .pbib files do not. This functionality is needed when creating a report against a development dataset and then being able to switch the connection to the production version.   

[amitchandak · Accepted solution]

@etheil , Have you created a M parameter and used it ?

example

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIq5vN5oPf8

[etheil]

Hi Amit,

Thanks so much for the response. I do have a solution to the problem, but I wanted to point out that the behavior is different when the file is saved as a .pbix as opposed to a .pbib. I was hopting to catch the attention of someone at Microsoft and thought this might be the best place to post.

Thanks,

Eric

[Martin_D]

Hi Eric,

The place to go if you have an idea what could be improved with Fabric, "Ideas" is the section to go to: CXP Ideas - Suggest New Idea - URSA (microsoft.com)

Kind regards,
Martin