1. Managing and Optimizing Semantic Model Refreshes
In this section, we’ll dive into how data refresh works in semantic models, exploring different refresh methods. We'll also look at the powerful Semantic Model Refresh Activity and how it helps automate updates effortlessly!
2. Data Refresh in Semantic Models
Data refresh is essential for keeping reports up-to-date by reflecting the latest data.
In Power BI, there are three ways to load data—Import, DirectQuery, and Direct Lake Mode—and each affects how data refreshes.
In Import Mode, you’ll need to schedule refreshes to update data.
whereas DirectQuery Mode doesn't require refreshes, as it directly queries the data source in real-time.
Similarly, Direct Lake Mode provides real-time access by querying OneLake, so there’s no need for manual refreshes.
3. Scheduled and On-Demand Refresh
Let's dive into the different ways you can refresh data in your semantic models!
Scheduled Refresh allows you to set specific times for automatic data updates. This makes sure that your data stays current without any manual work, which is great for regular updates. It takes the hassle out of ensuring your reports are always up-to-date.
For those situations where you need immediate updates, there's the On-Demand Refresh. You can trigger it manually whenever needed, perfect for scenarios where real-time accuracy is crucial.
Both approaches help keep your models fresh, depending on your needs!
4. Incremental and Full Refresh
Now we'll dive into Incremental and Full Refresh methods in semantic models.
Incremental Refresh updates only new or changed data, saving time and resources. This approach works well for large datasets that get regular additions, like daily sales records, since it avoids reloading unchanged data.
Full Refresh, on the other hand, reloads the entire dataset each time. Although more resource-intensive, it’s ideal for smaller datasets or when you need complete consistency, such as after structural changes or data corrections.
Together, these options allow flexibility based on your dataset size and refresh needs!
5. Semantic model refresh activity
Finally let’s dive into the Semantic Model Refresh Activity, a powerful activity in Microsoft Fabric's Data Factory.
This activity automates the refresh process for Power BI datasets, making sure your reports always reflect up-to-date information. It’s designed to work within Data Pipeline, enabling you to integrate model refreshes with data ingestion, transformation, or other processing in a cohesive, multi-step workflow.
It requires a connection to your Power BI datasets to work, and by default, it runs a full refresh, replacing all existing data with the latest updates.
Currently, this feature is in preview, offering early access to explore its capabilities. We’ll delve deeper into its usage in our upcoming exercises!
6. Let's practice!
The concepts are clear, now let us take the next step and dive into the practical side!