TODAY() - Measure vs Calculated column differences?

[rodneyc8063_1]

Pardon the question - But I am still learning the ropes with Power BI

I just came across something that Im not sure why its happening

Very simple - I created a new table and a new calculated column TEST=TODAY()

I then chose the table view with this column and was expecting to see simply todays date

I see that it actually returns a hierarchy of dates starting from 1900.

When I use the exact same formula in a MEASURE column though, this returns my expected output of just todays date.

I thought I had a grasp of measure vs calculated columns, but am confused why with the most simplest formula/function that it actually yields a totally different output?

Calculated column = TODAY()

Measure = TODAY()

Yields the below

[v-juanli-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @rodneyc8063_1 

Based on my experience, use "TODAY( )" in a calcuated column will get a columns show today's date, this would not change everyday dynamically.

Look my example,

Create a new table by this formula (Modeling tab->New table)

Table = CALENDAR(DATE(2019,3,20),TODAY())

Then Modeling tab->New column, enter the fomula

Column = TODAY()

But your test table is werid.

Maybe you use the wrong method to test.

Please test as i do above, then you will see the correct result.

Best Regards

Maggie

Community Support Team _ Maggie Li
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

[v-juanli-msft]

Hi @rodneyc8063_1 

Calcuated columns is static, measures can be dynamic with the slicer.

Reference: how to differ measure and calculated column

From your screenshot, the "Calculated column" seems werid.

If you create a Calculated column, it should equal to 2019/3/25 when creating it yestoday,

then when opening the file today, it remains 2019/3/25.

You say "I created a new table and a new calculated column TEST=TODAY()", 

As tested, when opening a blank pbix file, only "new table" enabled, others are disabled,

So it is strange what you have done.

Could you show some details?

Best Regards

Maggie

Community Support Team _ Maggie Li
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

[rodneyc8063_1]

Hi @v-juanli-msft / Maggie

Please find attached a sample PBIX file (I think I attached it correctly)

TODAY().PBIX Example