When utilizing Power BI, understanding the difference between calculated columns and measures and knowing when to apply each of them is crucial. Here's a simple breakdown:
1. Calculated Columns
In simple terms, calculated columns can be regarded as additional information that you are augmenting existing data tables with. It is like adding a fresh column to an existing Excel sheet. This column is going to contain some figures based on the formula that you provided.
- Calculated columns are used when new data fields need to be introduced to be employed in a report, such as sorting, filtering, or being part of visuals.
- For instance, in a sales table, you might want to create a column that categorizes sales as "High" if they exceed $ 1,000 and "Low" if they don't. This is a practical use of a calculated column, as it allows you to filter and visualize the data based on these categories.
- It's best to use calculated columns when the object will be reused in filters, rows, or slicers. However, be cautious, as calculated columns are not dynamic and can potentially bloat your model.
2. Measures
Measures are more like on-the-fly calculations. They don't add a new column to your data table. Instead, measures are concerned with any values, such as s or % relative averages, and such calculations are done automatically for you based on what is visible in the visuals.
- You use measures when numbers that you wish to calculate in other ways or group them are not required to be kept in a new column.
- For instance, whenever you devise a formula for total sales revenue, it is considered a measure. Yes, you can present this measure in different visualizations, and it will adjust itself according to the information presented in that visual (for example, sales by product or region sales). The value is affected by the use of filters or slices.
- Its best Measures are preferred for data that involve summations, averages, and percentages, which depend upon the filters or the context in which the visuals are presented. They are more effective than calculated columns and do not increase your data model.
Key Difference
Calculated columns are necessary when you need, for instance, additional fields in your data model to group or filter data.
Measures are calculated based on the appropriate context and adjusted according to what is currently active in the report.
As a rule of thumb, use measures where applicable since they are less resource-wasting and give you more versatility. Calculated columns should be used only when it is unavoidable to have that field in the data table.
