Forum Discussion
Analyze in Excel with CUBE functions
Hi There,
I have two questions.
1) To create flexible and specific format report our organisation is considering to connect with Powerbi sementic model and produce custom reports in excel using CUBE functions. - the question is, is it a robust solution? what are pros and cons of it?
2) How I disconnect from CUBE functions to paste all data as values, specially when i want to share file with collegues or external parties?
I tried to disconnect / Delete connection string used in CUBE formulas which resulted in #NA error.
I also tried to change file location or copy file from one workbook to new with no success.
I read about offile OLAP option whihc is greyed out and it seems that it is not supported.
appriciate solution and expert opinion.
Many thanks.
Hi hmasim_ ,
- Using Power BI Semantic Model with CUBE Functions in Excel
Pros:
Flexibility: CUBE functions allow you to create highly customized reports that aren’t confined to the structure of PivotTables
Direct Data Access: You can directly access and manipulate data from the Power BI semantic model, leveraging the power of DAX measures
Dynamic Updates: Reports can be refreshed to reflect the latest data from the Power BI model
Integration: Seamless integration with Power BI ensures that you are using governed and secure data
Cons:
Complexity: Writing and managing CUBE functions can be complex and may require a steep learning curve
Performance: Large datasets or complex calculations can impact performance and slow down Excel
Maintenance: Maintaining and updating reports with CUBE functions can be more challenging compared to traditional PivotTables
- Disconnecting from CUBE Functions to Paste Data as Values
To share your Excel file without the CUBE functions, you can follow these steps:
Copy and Paste as Values:
Select the range of cells containing the CUBE functions.
Right-click and choose “Copy” or press Ctrl + C
Right-click on the same range or a new location and choose “Paste Special” > "Values"
Convert to Formulas:
If you have a PivotTable connected to the Power BI model, you can convert it to formulas using the OLAP tools:
Select any cell in the PivotTable.
Go to the “PivotTable Tools: Analyze” tab.
Click “OLAP Tools” > "Convert to Formulas"
Below is the link will help you:
Best Regards,
Xianda Tang
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.
1 Reply
Hi hmasim_ ,
- Using Power BI Semantic Model with CUBE Functions in Excel
Pros:
Flexibility: CUBE functions allow you to create highly customized reports that aren’t confined to the structure of PivotTables
Direct Data Access: You can directly access and manipulate data from the Power BI semantic model, leveraging the power of DAX measures
Dynamic Updates: Reports can be refreshed to reflect the latest data from the Power BI model
Integration: Seamless integration with Power BI ensures that you are using governed and secure data
Cons:
Complexity: Writing and managing CUBE functions can be complex and may require a steep learning curve
Performance: Large datasets or complex calculations can impact performance and slow down Excel
Maintenance: Maintaining and updating reports with CUBE functions can be more challenging compared to traditional PivotTables
- Disconnecting from CUBE Functions to Paste Data as Values
To share your Excel file without the CUBE functions, you can follow these steps:
Copy and Paste as Values:
Select the range of cells containing the CUBE functions.
Right-click and choose “Copy” or press Ctrl + C
Right-click on the same range or a new location and choose “Paste Special” > "Values"
Convert to Formulas:
If you have a PivotTable connected to the Power BI model, you can convert it to formulas using the OLAP tools:
Select any cell in the PivotTable.
Go to the “PivotTable Tools: Analyze” tab.
Click “OLAP Tools” > "Convert to Formulas"
Below is the link will help you:
Best Regards,
Xianda Tang
If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.