Explicit Measures Podcast

In this engaging talk, Alex Powers, a Power Query expert and contributor to Microsoft documentation, shares his secrets for maximizing performance and optimizing data transformations in Power BI. He discusses the evolution of Power Query, focusing on feature updates and best practices. The conversation also covers the significance of query folding and the challenges it presents. Alex emphasizes the role of AI tools in modern data management, paving the way for a seamless user experience as the landscape evolves.

Join data expert Alex Powers, a consultant known for his mastery in Power Query, as he dives into the essential skills you need to effectively harness this powerful tool. He discusses navigating task flows in Microsoft Fabric and highlights the innovations like turning sketches into data pipelines. The conversation explores the evolution of Power Query and its integration with Microsoft products. Alex emphasizes the future of data management and the importance of adapting to AI advancements for enhanced user experience.

Dive into a candid discussion about the quirks of Microsoft Fabric and Power BI. The hosts spotlight the half-baked ideas that could use a polish, especially new functionalities from the April 2025 update. They explore the integration of low-code AI and how it enhances data usability. Performance tips on optimizing Power BI tables take center stage, along with critiques of AI Copilot's limits. Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts on improving these tools for a better user experience.

The hosts dive into how Semantic Modeling in Power BI and Microsoft Fabric impacts lakehouse design. They explore advancements in external data sharing, highlighting user-friendly security features. Real-time report viewing with Power BI is discussed, alongside the challenges of navigating SharePoint's security landscape. The conversation humorously addresses evolving roles in business intelligence, emphasizing the need for specialized skills and community support in the rapidly changing data management environment.

In this discussion, Ginger Grant, a data science expert known for her insights on AI and Microsoft Fabric, shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of data science education. She emphasizes the need for practical learning over traditional degrees, highlighting the importance of real-world experience. The conversation also dives into the role of AI in education and how it can reshape learning experiences. Ginger examines the potential for non-traditional pathways to become data scientists and the significance of effective communication in this tech-driven era.

In this lively discussion, data scientist Ginger Grant shares her insights on the evolving world of data science within the Microsoft ecosystem. The conversation delves into the timely transition for data scientists to embrace Fabric and its features like enhanced data connectivity and user experience improvements. They tackle the challenges of data accessibility and adoption, emphasizing the need for custom integrations. Ginger highlights the significance of understanding raw data and shares cautious optimism about the future of data science in Microsoft Fabric.

Dive into the intriguing intersection of data science and Power BI, where new features like Fabric are stirring curiosity. Discover the power of user-defined functions in enhancing data management and how AI tools, like Cursor, are transforming app development. Explore the evolving relationship between data scientists and BI developers, as well as the shift toward API-driven, real-time analytics. The future of data interaction promises user-friendly tools, making data science accessible to a wider audience.

Ginger Grant, a data science MVP, dives into the future of data science integrated with Microsoft Fabric. She discusses the crucial role of advanced data mapping in enhancing local sales insights. The conversation shifts to the challenges of estimating fabric capacity and the need for pragmatic solutions. They also explore the exciting integration of Visual Studio Code with Microsoft Fabric, while addressing the evolving landscape of AI in business intelligence and sports analytics, emphasizing the importance of accessible data for effective decision-making.

Mike and Tommy dive into the future of DAX and Semantic Models following the FabCon announcements. They tackle the challenges of data integration in a lake house environment with Power BI and Python. Exciting advancements in AI integration and Microsoft's Co-pilot features are highlighted. Innovations like Intellexos for Power BI streamline development, while data security and governance are emphasized. The hosts reflect on community engagement and share tidbits from the recent conference, including playful moments that keep the spirit alive.

Ginger Grant, a data science MVP and expert in machine learning applications, joins the conversation to discuss the integration of data science within Microsoft Fabric. She sheds light on the challenges and advancements in data visualization for sales, and highlights new estimation tools for capacity. The discussion also covers the implications of AI on the data science job market, while offering insights on the evolving landscape of business intelligence. Plus, they explore the fun yet complex world of insurance statistics!