The Git integration in Power BI enables collaboration, version control, and automated deployment, providing an audit trail for changes made.
The integration simplifies the development process by allowing synchronized changes between Power BI service and desktop versions.
The Git integration bridges the gap between business users and developers, streamlining reporting processes and enabling version control.
Deep dives
PBIP: A New File Type
The integration of Power BI with Git introduces a new file type called PBIP (Power BI Project File). When saving a PBIX file as a PBIP, it generates a folder structure containing multiple files and folders. One of the key files is the PBIP file itself, which is a JSON object that defines the report and model in the project.
Branching and Merging
With the Git integration, Power BI users can now take advantage of branching and merging capabilities. This allows for better collaboration and version control, as multiple developers can work on different branches and merge their changes together. The PBIP file serves as a pointer to the relevant report and model folders, enabling teams to easily manage and track changes across different branches.
Managing Data and Definitions
The Git integration also provides the ability to separate data from the report and model definitions. Users can strip out the data portion of the Power BI file, reducing its size and allowing for faster and more efficient version control. This means that only the model and report definitions, along with the necessary metadata, are checked into Git, while the actual data is ignored. Additionally, the PBIP file allows for flexibility in connecting to different models, whether they are located locally, in the service, or in other workspaces.
Simplifying Power BI Development with Git Integration
The podcast episode discusses the benefits of integrating Git into Power BI development. One main point highlighted is the ability to track changes and maintain a version control system for reports and dashboards. Git enables collaboration, branching, merging, and automated deployment with CI/CD tools, providing an audit trail for changes made. Another important insight is the convenience of editing reports in the Power BI service without worrying about the compatibility with desktop versions. This integration simplifies the development process, allows for synchronized changes, and offers more flexibility for developers to work on different aspects of a report.
Enhancing Collaboration and Process Improvement
The podcast delves into how the Git integration in Power BI bridges the gap between business users and developers, emphasizing collaboration. It enables business users to edit and make changes in the Power BI service, ensuring a streamlined and effective process. Furthermore, the integration addresses pain points in synchronizing changes between desktop and service, and provides a solution for embedded Power BI reporting within applications. With the introduction of Git, deployment of changes can align with application release schedules, allowing for version control, rollback options, and a simplified process. This integration also necessitates the need for BI teams to rethink their development processes and communicate the new workflow to the organization, ensuring accurate and efficient reporting.
With all of the amazing new announcements at Microsoft Build, one that may have escaped many Power BI developers in the ability to work with Git & Power BI development. Mike, Seth, & Tommy introduce the concept and explore the changes this will have on process and people.
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