Report Builder Dataflow and Paramater

Hi SC07,

Hope you're doing well!

Here's a clear breakdown of what's happening and how to fix it. No worries, this is a very common use case in Power BI Report Builder!

--> Why your filter isn't working ?

The core problem is that Power BI Report Builder treats each dataset as completely independent. When you have your dataflow dataset and your semantic model calendar dataset, selecting a value in one doesn't automatically filter the other. The parameter you created is "linked" to the calendar dataset visually, but it's not being passed as a query filter into the dataflow dataset, so it just pulls everything.

--> Solution :

You should filter inside the dataflow dataset query. When you set up your dataflow dataset in Report Builder, you need to edit the query so it actually receives your parameter value:

1. In Report Builder, right-click your dataflow dataset → Dataset Properties
2. Go to the Parameters tab
3. Add a parameter here (e.g. @YearMonth) and map it to your existing report parameter
4. Then in the Query tab, make sure your query actually uses that parameter in a WHERE clause — something like WHERE YearMonth = @YearMonth

The key issue is that the parameter needs to be wired into the query itself, not just exist as a report-level parameter floating in space.

--> Remember that :

Report Builder datasets don't "talk" to each other automatically. Unlike Power BI Desktop where slicers filter everything, in Report Builder you have to explicitly pass parameter values into each dataset's query. Thinking of it like a stored procedure that needs its arguments passed in every time helps make this click.

Here are some useful official MS documentation if needed more information :

Filter, Group, and Sort Data (Report Builder) — Microsoft Learn

Add Dataset Filters, Data Region Filters, and Group Filters — Microsoft Learn

Report Parameters in Report Builder — Microsoft Learn

Create a Paginated Report with Power BI Dataflows — Microsoft Learn

Hope this helps. Feel free to ask me questions if needed, and don’t forget to like (kudos) & Accept as Solution if this guidance worked for you. That's motivate me to keep helping.

Best regards,

Oussama (Data Consultant & Fabric's Expert)