Dataflows going to the source by Import Data Mode or Direct Query?

Hi Johann_32 ,

I understand your question now.

So the main benefit of dataflow is to create a separate layer of logical transformations on the source data like the Power Query element in Power BI Desktop. Dataflow is the Power Query capability in the cloud. So the basic necessity for transforming the source data in the transformation layer is it needs to be read in IMPORT mode. Therefore answer to your question is Dataflow connects to source data in import mode.

Consider a scenario where you have DF1 --> dataflow connected to Azure SQL DW which has imported all the relevant tables. Now you want to consume DF1 to another dataflow say DF2 to transform the data imported in DF1.

In this scenario where a dataflow can consume another dataflow for reusable purpose; DF2 connects to DF1 in direct query mode.

Hopefully the explanation helps.

You can find more details here: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-bi/transform-model/dataflows/dataflows-directquery