PBI to allow an export to a specific file format as a csv

[Welshbird]

Hi all,

I have a project coming up that will require me to provide a file following a specific format as a csv. The request is to make htis self-service - so to create a (probably) Power BI report that then uses something to provide a download for the user as and when required. 

I started looking at PowerBI Report builder but am not sure that looks like it does this easily - am looking for some advice tas to where is the best place to start. I don't have the option of using SSRS either unfortunately.

Thanks in advance all!

[v-ssriganesh]

Hello @Welshbird,

Hope everything’s going great with you. Just checking in has the issue been resolved or are you still running into problems? Sharing an update can really help others facing the same thing.

Thank you.

[Welshbird]

I think what I have found now is that I simply can'tt do this with paginated reports in PBI (or I can't see way I can at least) as the file has to have header rows and footer rows so I suspect it could be an SSRS report but is likely to be a SQL script - which may take away the self-service for the user that I'd really like to provide. Thanks all for trying though. 

[v-ssriganesh]

Hello @Welshbird,

Thanks for confirming. you’re correct that Paginated Reports in Power BI require headers/footers, so a fully self-service export in that format isn’t possible. Moving to SSRS or a SQL script will give you more control, though with less self-service for end users. Glad we could help clarify the options and all the best with whichever approach you choose.

Best Regards,
Ganesh singamshetty

[v-ssriganesh]

Hello @Welshbird,
Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Fabric Community Forum and thanks @rohit1991 for sharing your valuable insights.

For self-service CSV export with date range filtering, start with Power BI Visuals to keep it simple:

• In Power BI Desktop, create a table visual with required columns and a date range slicer and Format data in Power Query to match your needs then Publish to Power BI Service. Users select dates and export via ellipsis (...) you can see option called Export.
• Alternative you can use Power Automate Visual for a button-driven export to SharePoint, also supporting date range slicers (see Export with Power Automate).
• Paginated Reports is Better for large datasets or precise formatting but more complex.

SSRS: Check with your colleague if SSRS is available. It’s like Paginated Reports but needs a SQL Server license. If unavailable, stick with Power BI options.

Best Regards,
Ganesh singamshetty.

[rohit1991]

Hi @Welshbird 

If you're aiming to let users export a Power BI report into a specific CSV format without using SSRS, here are two practical options you can explore:

1. Paginated Reports (Power BI Report Builder)

This is a great solution when you need full control over the CSV structure such as column order, headers, and layout. Unlike regular Power BI visuals, Paginated Reports allow you to design the export exactly how you want it. Once published to a Premium workspace (or using a PPU license), users can easily download the file in CSV format. It's ideal for situations where formatting matters.

2. Power BI + Power Automate

If you want a self-service approach with flexibility, Power Automate is a great choice. You can build a flow that pulls your data from Power BI, formats it into a specific CSV layout, and sends it as an email or download link. You can even trigger this flow with a button in your Power BI report, giving users a smooth export experience. This method works well for tailored formatting and automation especially when Report Builder feels too rigid.

Both approaches can work well depending on how complex your formatting requirements are.

[Welshbird]

Fab will look at both of these options - the user will need to specify which data is required - I suspect as simple as date ranges - would that affect which you would advise I do? Thanks so much

[Welshbird]

Would I be more sensible to ask a colleague about SSRS too? Am really not sure the best starting place if I'm honest