Forum Discussion
what model framework should I choose - Import or Direct Query ?
You seem to be very far away from a scenario that would require Direct Query mode. Continue with Import.
When deciding between Import and DirectQuery in your Power BI model, consider the following factors based on your scenario:
Current Observations
Data Size: Your current file size is 6 MB, which is far below the 1 GB limit for Import mode in Power BI (10 GB in Premium workspaces).
Refresh Frequency: Daily refresh (4 times) is manageable with Import mode since it doesn't require real-time updates.
Premium License: This allows for increased capacity, supporting larger datasets and more frequent refreshes (up to 48 times daily).
Pros and Cons of Each Model
1. Import Mode
Advantages:
Faster performance: Data is stored in-memory for quick querying.
Supports complex DAX calculations and advanced transformations without impacting query performance.
More features: Works seamlessly with custom visuals like Inforiver.
More flexibility: Handles offline usage scenarios.
Limitations:
Dataset size: If the SQL Server data grows significantly (approaching the 1 GB/10 GB limit), managing and refreshing data could become challenging.
Refresh time: As data size grows, refresh times can increase.
Resource usage: More memory-intensive on the Power BI server.
2. DirectQuery Mode
Advantages:
No size limitations: Queries data directly from SQL Server without loading it into Power BI.
Up-to-date data: Ensures data is as current as the SQL Server database (if needed).
Ideal for large datasets: Useful when datasets grow beyond Power BI's memory capacity.
Limitations:
Slower performance: Queries are sent to the SQL Server at runtime, increasing latency.
Feature limitations: Some DAX functions and custom visuals may not work as intended.
Dependency on SQL Server: Every user query hits the server, which could cause performance bottlenecks if server resources are constrained.