Question

How do you integrate Power BI maps with external geospatial data services (e.g., ArcGIS, Mapbox)?

How can Power BI maps be enhanced by integrating with external geospatial tools like ArcGIS or Mapbox?

Answer 1

• When Power BI maps can zoom into geospatial data sourced from outside services such as ArcGIS and Mapbox, the visualization and analytical power of reports greatly improve. Power BI has built-in connectors to achieve this, and there are options to embed visuals using APIs or third-party integrators.
• ArcGIS Maps for Power BI visual comes with the Power BI application by Esri, which allows users to integrate advanced geospatial features right into the tool. The visualizations pane houses this and enables the use of spatial filtering, demographic layers, and heatmap visualizations. However, advanced features like custom base maps or drive-time analysis may require an Esri account or premium subscription.
• Custom visuals or APIs will be used to integrate the two for Mapbox. You can use the Mapbox Visual for Power BI provided in AppSource to access Mapbox maps: its npm package offers advanced customization features like 3D maps, satellite pictures, and real-time data layers. Once the visual is installed, you need to link it with your associated Mapbox account by feeding your access token to configure style, zoom level, and interactivity with the map.
• With both options, you can work with the highest-quality data geospatial technologies offered, along with sophisticated mapping capabilities available only outside Power BI. Organizations that use detailed spatial analysis or even industry-specific mapping application implementations will benefit most from this.

Comments

This highlights how integrating ArcGIS and Mapbox with Power BI enhances geospatial analysis, but advanced features may require external accounts or subscriptions.

Answer 2

Power BI maps can be enhanced by integrating ArcGIS (via the ArcGIS for Power BI visual) or Mapbox (using the Mapbox custom visual), enabling advanced geospatial analysis, custom map styles, and enriched location data.