Using Live connection / sharing a dataset between reports

[campelliann]

Hi there,

In order to save time in modelling/space in my workspace I am thinking in sharing the same model/dataset for several reports that happen to have lots of sources in common.

Is there any downside to this option? For instance with queries, several reports querying the same dataset. 

Thanks in advance

[collinq · Accepted solution]

Hi @campelliann ,

Based on your title, there are two answers.  First, yes, using one dataset in many reports is more efficient (unless you have wildly different permissions between the way you are trying to present the end data).  The easiest way is to use a dataflow, or perhaps the new datamart and then to allow many reports to use that output.

As for the other part of the title - the "live connection" piece.  There are number of limitations to using a "live connection".  If you go the dataflow route, the other reports can use the dataflow but if you are also using a live connection you may run into other issues.  This article lists some of those limitations:  Connect to datasets in the Power BI service from Power BI Desktop - Power BI | Microsoft Docs