Azure Tabular Model vs. XMLA vs. Data Flows

[barakb321]

Hello,

We are providing a SaaS system and let our customers analyze their data in Power BI Service (not embedded) using reports we builded for them.

The system database is Azure SQL.

We considered building an Azure Tabular Model to serve for a unified model for all reports and all customers. The main drivers are implementing a permission model (RLS-like), reducing model maintenance, supporting DirectQuery and preparation for embedding reports in the SaaS system.

Lately we heared about XMLA endpoint and that it's actually a Tabular model. Does XMLA support all the driving requirements? I'm worried mainly for permissions, direct query and storage.

Thanks,

Barak 

[bcdobbs · Accepted solution]

Have a read of

https://powerbi.microsoft.com/en-us/blog/power-bi-as-a-superset-of-azure-analysis-services/

My understanding is that power bi premium will eventually offer everything that azure analysis service has and more.

[bcdobbs]

You could test for your specific use cases by purchasing a couple of power bills premium per user licences. (Eg no need to go for full capacity purchase)