Forum Discussion
Composite model connection could not be made.
Hi, we are building a report that combines data from a few semantic models to be some kind of "executive dashboard". Got this "infamous" error for few users.
A connection could not be made to the data source with the Name of '{"protocol":"analysis-services","address":{"server":"powerbi://api.powerbi.com/v1.0/myorg/[workspace]","database":"[model]"},"authentication":null,"query":null}'.
Cluster URI: WABI-EUROPE-NORTH-B-redirect.analysis.windows.net
and yes.. user got access to underlying datasets through App Audiences. I'm wondering does this solution also require a "build" option to be setted up? Or it should be something else.
I see this error is still showing for many people, does microsoft work on this somehow?
Following links will also help you about this issue:
Composite Models on Power BI Datasets and Analysis Services Models – SumProduct
Solved: Composite Model: Build permission needed for end ... - Microsoft Fabric Community
Use composite models in Power BI Desktop - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
Setting the right permissions for users of composite models - SQLBI
Build Permission for Shared Semantic Models - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
Yes — users must have Build permission on every underlying semantic model. App audience access gives Read only, which is not enough for composite / multi-dataset reports.
Why the error appears:
Power BI connects via Analysis Services (XMLA). Without Build, the connection fails and shows this generic error.Fix:
Grant affected users (or a security group):Build permission on each dataset
Semantic model → Manage permissions → Enable Build
Notes:
Workspace Viewer + App access ≠ sufficient
This is by design, not a Microsoft bug
Error message is misleading but common
Best practice:
Use a thin central semantic model and grant Build only on that model.
4 Replies
- Amar_Kumar
Super User
Yes — users must have Build permission on every underlying semantic model. App audience access gives Read only, which is not enough for composite / multi-dataset reports.
Why the error appears:
Power BI connects via Analysis Services (XMLA). Without Build, the connection fails and shows this generic error.Fix:
Grant affected users (or a security group):Build permission on each dataset
Semantic model → Manage permissions → Enable Build
Notes:
Workspace Viewer + App access ≠ sufficient
This is by design, not a Microsoft bug
Error message is misleading but common
Best practice:
Use a thin central semantic model and grant Build only on that model. - 123abc
Community Champion
Following links will also help you about this issue:
Composite Models on Power BI Datasets and Analysis Services Models – SumProduct
Solved: Composite Model: Build permission needed for end ... - Microsoft Fabric Community
Use composite models in Power BI Desktop - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
Setting the right permissions for users of composite models - SQLBI
Build Permission for Shared Semantic Models - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
v-veshwara-msftCommunity Support
Hi notsobad__ ,
Thanks for reaching out to Microsoft Fabric Community.Just checking in to see if you query is resolved and if any responses were helpful.
Otherwise, feel free to reach out for further assistance.Thank you.
- v-veshwara-msft
Hi notsobad__ ,
We wanted to kindly follow up regarding your query. If you need any further assistance, please reach out.
Thank you.