Database Reference
In-Depth Information
Introduction
This chapter focuses on the creation and visualization of System Center datasets using Mi-
crosoft Excel and Microsoft Power BI services. You create the model and then visualize
and analyze the data using the add-ins enabled or installed in Microsoft Excel. The four
add-ins that extend Microsoft Excel for a self-service BI are as follows:
•
Power Query
: Microsoft Power Query for Excel provides an intuitive and consist-
ent experience to discover, combine, and refine data across a wide variety of data
sources. Data gathering and modeling that is used to match your analysis require-
ments is done using Power Query. You can use Power Query to create queries in
preparation for further analysis and modeling by tools such as PowerPivot, Power
View, and Power Maps.
•
PowerPivot
: With PowerPivot, you can create relationships between heterogen-
eous data, create calculated columns and measures, and build PivotTables and
PivotCharts for further analysis. You can transform large datasets into meaningful
information to get the answers you need in seconds.
•
Power View
: Power View makes it possible to create interactive data explorations
and visualizations using Excel sheets for intuitive ad-hoc reporting. This add-in
consumes the data model created in PowerPivot.
•
Power Maps
: Power Map makes it possible to explore and navigate geospatial
data through a three-dimensional (3D) map experience in Microsoft Excel.
Creating reports (or dashboards) using these Excel add-ins can be compared with the clas-
sic
Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services
(
SSRS
) report creation. Data gathering and
modeling is done with Power Query and PowerPivot. Visualization of the analysis is made
available through Power View and Power Maps. The difference between using Power BI
tools and SSRS report creation is the type of knowledge and skills that each requires. SSRS
can be used to create interactive dashboards and ad-hoc reports but requires a higher level
of skill than BI add-ins for Microsoft Excel.
The recipes in this chapter provide the foundational steps required to visualize the results of
System Center data analysis using these add-ins.
