Question

What are the recommended methods for refreshing SSAS datasets in Power BI reports?

I am working on a Power BI report that uses SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) datasets, and I want to ensure the data refresh process is efficient and reliable. However, I’m unsure about the best methods or tools to schedule and automate these refreshes. Could you provide recommendations or strategies for managing SSAS dataset refreshes in Power BI?

Answer 1

Freshening SSAS gain data sets in Power BI reports can be done in numerous ways and strategies to bring that reliability and efficiency:

For On-Premises Deployment Gateway: If your SSAS instance is internal, you must install and configure the On-Premises Data Gateway. This bridges Power BI Service with your SSAS server through live data connections and scheduled refreshes. Ensure proper installation or updates of the gateway and configure the SSAS data source within the Power BI Service with the correct credentials.

Scheduled Refresh via Power BI Service: In an Import Mode or if you need to refresh SSAS data in DirectQuery mode, a scheduled refresh can be established within Power BI Service. Navigate through the dataset settings, then provide a refresh schedule that resonates with your organization's needs. The frequency of refreshes might depend on what you do with your Power BI licensing, e.g., whether it is Pro or Premium.

Incorporate SQL Agent Jobs for SSAS Processing: This means creating jobs that will be responsible for an SSAS cube or tabular model processing from SQL Server Agent, in case you want to ensure that the data is available for the end-user through Power BI before the intended access. These jobs can be scheduled to run just before the refresh of the relevant dataset in Power BI, thus ensuring data consistency and minimal risk of incomplete updates that need to be completed.

Monitor and Optimize Performance:

1. Ensure that the SSAS model is optimized for query performance.
2. Speed up access to data by reducing refresh times using aggregations, partitions, and proper indexing.
3. Keep refreshing logs and the performance trends of the SSAS server to monitor bottlenecks.

Use of Direct Query: For a reporting requirement where a reasonably real-time data view is needed, the DirectQuery mode of Power BI can connect directly to the SSAS without requiring scheduled refreshes. However, depending on the complexity of the queries and the size of the dataset, this will adversely affect performance, hence requiring thorough testing before using.

By combining these methods, you can achieve a robust and reliable refresh process for your SSAS datasets in Power BI that meets your specific organizational needs.