Use of Slicers for Database Selection in front Report Page

[shashi_bagale]

I am building a Power BI report connected to a single SQL Server (SSMS) that hosts multiple databases, where each database corresponds to a different product company (PC).

• The report has 4 pages having Visuals like, Column chart, Tables and Bookmarks and uses around 10 tables per database.
• The data model is composite:
  • Fact tables → DirectQuery (real-time)
  • Dimension tables → Import mode
• Each database has different credentials (user/password).
• The requirement is:
  • To have a landing page in the report with a slicer listing all PCs.
  • When a user selects a PC, the report should automatically connect to that PC’s database (with correct credentials), and all 5 pages should update accordingly.

Constraint: I do not want to load data from all PCs/databases at once, because each DB is large and only one should be queried at a time.

The core question:

Is it possible in Power BI to dynamically switch the DirectQuery database connection at runtime using a slicer?

If not, what would be the best alternative approach to achieve this requirement without preloading all databases into the model?

[danextian · Accepted solution]

Unforntunately, what you're asking for isn't possible. The query editor affects the designer but it isn't the other way around - slicer selection doesn't get passed on the the query editorr.

[shashi_bagale]

Thank you for the reply..🙂

[shashi_bagale]

Thank you for the reply...🙂

[shashi_bagale]

@jaineshp Thanks for the super qucik reply🙂. That means I still have to load all the data from the source..

[v-sshirivolu]

Hi @shashi_bagale  ,

I would also take a moment to thank @jaineshp  , for actively participating in the community forum and for the solutions you’ve been sharing in the community forum. Your contributions make a real difference.
 

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. 

[v-sshirivolu]

Hi @shashi_bagale ,

I hope the above details help you fix the issue. If you still have any questions or need more help, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to support you

[v-sshirivolu]

Hi @shashi_bagale ,
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

[jaineshp]

Hey @v-sshirivolu,

Thank you for the kind recognition - always happy to contribute to our community's success!

Best Regards,
Jainesh Poojara | Power BI Developer

[jaineshp]

Yes, that's the only way!

Best regards,
Jainesh Poojara / Power BI Developer

[jaineshp]

Hey @shashi_bagale,

No, Power BI cannot dynamically switch DirectQuery connections at runtime using slicers. The data source connections are fixed at report design time.

Alternate Option: Multiple Report Approach

• Create separate .pbix files for each PC database
• Build a master landing page with PC slicer
• Use report navigation/drill-through to open respective PC reports
• Each report connects to its specific database with proper credentials

Fixed? ✓ Mark it • Share it • Help others!

Best Regards,
Jainesh Poojara | Power BI Developer