Using Date Tables

[Boycie92]

Hi,

I’m wondering if someone can help.

I have created a date table but the problem is I have other tables and each of them have different date columns (for different functions).

How do I connect it to my model and how can I ensure that all of the date columns can reference it?

Thanks,

Boycie92

[jthomson]

You can connect tables through more than one column the same way you'd have just a single relationship, you just need to pick one to be the active relationship (normally the most important or one you use most often), and the others are inactive and you need to use USERELATIONSHIP in your measures etc where applicable

[Boycie92]

HI @jthomson

Thanks for the quick reply.

Just a couple of further questions to clarify

Can the USERELATIONSHIP function work with Direct Query?

If I wanted to use the QuaterYear column I have in my DateTable instead of date column I have in one of the other tables (for a chart or calculation) that has an inactive relationship how would I achieve this?

Thanks,

Boycie92

[v-huizhn-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @Boycie92,

As I tested, the USERELATIONSHIP function work correctly in Direct Query mode as follows.



>>If I wanted to use the QuaterYear column I have in my DateTable instead of date column I have in one of the other tables (for a chart or calculation) that has an inactive relationship how would I achieve this?

As what @jthomson said, you need to use USERELATIONSHIP in your measures to active the inactive relationship. Prerequisite, at least one of the column has unique value so that they can be used to create relationship.

Best Regards,
Angelia

[Boycie92]

Hi @v-huizhn-msft

So the only way to use a column within my date table that has an inactive relationship is to create a measure?

I can’t just place the column in a visual and use a measure I have already created? What if I wanted to use a DateTable column as a Filter? Would all of my surrounding visuals need to work based on a USERELATIONSHIP measure?

Thanks,

Boycie92

[jthomson]

I don't use Direct Query so don't know how this would work in your case