Mastering Microsoft Power BI

Import versus DirectQuery

A subsequent but closely related step to dataset planning is choosing between the default Import mode or DirectQuery mode. In some projects, this is a simple decision as only one option is feasible or realistic given the known requirements while other projects entail significant analysis of the pros and cons of either design. For example, if a data source is considered slow or ill-equipped to handle a high volume of analytical queries then an import mode dataset is very likely the preferred option. Additionally, if multiple data sources are required for a dataset and they cannot be consolidated into a single DirectQuery data source then an import mode dataset is the only option. Likewise, if near real-time visibility ...