What are Power Query's major Data Destinations ? Power BI interview questions and answers 243

What are Power Query's major Data Destinations ?

In Power Query, your transformed and cleaned data can land in two main destinations:

1. Table in a Worksheet:

• This is the default option and most familiar for Excel users. The transformed data creates a new table within a worksheet in your Excel workbook.

• This option is suitable for smaller datasets and quick explorations, as it directly integrates with Excel functionalities like charts, formulas, and pivot tables.

• However, for larger datasets and complex models, performance and scalability limitations of Excel can become an issue.

2. Excel Data Model:

• This destination creates a hidden data model within your Excel workbook, separate from the visible worksheets.

• The data model allows for building intricate relationships between various tables, enabling richer and more comprehensive analysis.

• It supports larger datasets and offers superior performance compared to directly loading data into worksheets.

• Power BI Desktop leverages the Excel Data Model, making it a natural transition point for users wanting to extend their data analysis capabilities beyond Excel's limitations.

Additional Options:

• Azure Analysis Services: For extremely large datasets and advanced data governance needs, Power Query can also connect to Azure Analysis Services, a cloud-based data warehousing solution.

• Other Databases: Using custom connectors created by the community or developers, Power Query can directly load data into various external databases, expanding its destination capabilities beyond Excel.

Choosing the right destination depends on your specific needs and data volume:

• For simple analysis and smaller datasets, a table in a worksheet might be sufficient.

• For more complex analysis, larger datasets, or future integration with Power BI, the Excel Data Model is a better choice.

• Consider Azure Analysis Services or other databases for massive data volumes and high-performance requirements.

Ultimately, understanding the strengths and limitations of each destination empowers you to select the most suitable option for your specific data analysis goals.