Power BI Tutorial: From Blank Page to Dashboard

Introduction

• Opening Power BI can be overwhelming when you're unsure of your next steps.
• David and Kevin provide a guide on transforming messy data into a functional dashboard using Copilot.

Power BI Setup

1. Download & Install:

   • Open the Microsoft Store via Windows Start menu.
   • Search for Power BI, focusing on Power BI Desktop for digital dashboards.
   • Power BI Report Builder is for printed reports.
   • Installation open to Windows users only.

2. Starting a Blank Report:

   • Click on the blank report on the splash screen.
   • Familiarize with the four core components within the report view:
     • Report pane: for building reports and dashboards.
     • Property panes: for visual modifications.
     • Ribbon: shortcuts to common tasks.
     • View switcher: different perspective switches.

Data Importation & Cleanup

3. Data Import:

   • Get Excel file from the resources section and import it via the Excel workbook button in the ribbon.
   • Preview imported tables.
   • Clean data using "transform data." Use Power Query Editor for manipulations.

4. Power Query Transformation:

   • Fix inconsistencies, like lowercase and uppercase text.
   • Split address data using delimiters and transform columns accordingly.

Dashboard Creation

5. Building the Report:

   • With Copilot, prompt suggestions for visuals on the report.
   • Manual visual additions for customization: area chart, line chart, etc.
   • Customize axis, legend, and data points for dynamic interaction.

6. Data Model Verification:

   • Check and manage table relations before proceeding with visualizations.

Sharing & Integration

7. Publish and Share:

   • Save your work, publish, and select a workspace.
   • Explore sharing options, embed report in websites, or create QR codes.
   • Export options available to Excel, PowerPoint, PDF.

8. Advanced Sharing Features:

   • Subscribe users, set data change alerts, and utilize collaborative tools.

Conclusion

• Achieved the basics of data importation, cleaning, visualization creation, and sharing within Power BI.
• Further engagement encouraged by commenting on preferred tutorial topics.

Thank you for watching and engaging! Feel free to share your feedback or requests for upcoming topics in the comments.