POWER BI DESKTOP INTRODUCTION

Level: Advanced | Delivery Channel: In-Person Classroom or Virtually Online | CPE Credits: 16 Credits | Duration: 2 Days

This course is an intensive, two-day program designed to provide a solid foundation with the Microsoft Power BI Desktop application. The curriculum follows the end-to-end BI workflow, starting with data acquisition and transformation using Power Query, where students learn to clean and "shape" data through techniques like pivoting, unpivoting, and merging queries. Participants then delve into relational Data Modeling, mastering star schemas and cardinality to ensure efficient analysis. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to DAX (Data Analysis Expressions), teaching students how to write powerful measures and calculated columns for complex business logic. Finally, the class covers Data Visualization best practices, enabling users to build interactive dashboards.

WHO IS THIS CLASS FOR

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Individuals who want to learn Microsoft Power BI Desktop from the ground up with no previous knowledge of the application.

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Team members that want to be report and dashboard creators, and want to become comfortable connecting to data, transforming data, and presenting data using Microsoft Power BI Desktop.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Power BI Overview
  • Power BI Desktop
  • Power BI Service (SaaS)
  • Power BI Mobile
  • Power BI Report Server (On-Premises)
  • Power Query Overview
Connecting & Shaping Data
  • Data Connectors
  • Storage & Import Modes
  • Query Editing Tools
  • Table Transformations
  • Connecting to a Database
  • Extracting Data from the Web
  • QA & Profiling Tools
  • Text, Numerical, Date & Time Tools
  • Rolling Calendars
  • Index & Conditional Columns
  • Grouping & Aggregating
  • Pivoting & Unpivoting
  • Merging & Appending Queries
  • Data Source Parameters
  • Importing Excel Models
Creating a Relational Data Model
  • Database Normalization
  • Fact & Dimension Tables
  • Primary & Foreign Keys
  • Star & Snowflake Schemas
  • Active & Inactive Relationships
  • Relationship Cardinality
  • Filter Context & Flow
  • Bi-Directional Filters
  • Model Layouts
  • Data Formats & Categories
  • Hierarchies
Adding Calculated Fields with DAX
  • DAX vs. M
  • Calculated Columns & Measures
  • Implicit, Explicit & Quick Measures
  • Measure Calculation Steps
  • DAX Syntax & Operators
  • Math & Stats Functions
  • Conditional & Logical Functions
  • The SWITCH Function
  • Text Functions
  • Date & Time Functions
  • The RELATED Function
  • CALCULATE, FILTER & ALL
  • Iterator (X) Functions
  • Time Intelligence Patterns
Visualizing Data with Reports
  • Data Viz Best Practices
  • Dashboard Design Framework
  • Cards & KPIs
  • Line Charts, Trend Lines & Forecasts
  • On-Object Formatting
  • Table & Matrix Visuals
  • Conditional Formatting
  • Top N Filtering
  • Map Visuals
  • Drill Up, Drill Down & Drillthrough
  • Report Slicers & Interactions
  • Bookmarks & Page Navigation
  • Numeric & Fields Parameters
  • Custom Tooltips
  • Importing Custom Visuals
  • Managing & Viewing Roles (RLS)
  • Mobile Layouts
  • Publishing to Power BI Service
AI Tools & Optimization
  • Decomposition Trees
  • Key Influencers
  • Smart Narratives
  • Natural Language Q&A
  • The Optimize Ribbon
  • Pausing Visuals
  • Optimization Presets
  • Applying All Slicers
  • Performance Analyzer
  • External Optimization Tools

WHAT YOU WILL GET

  • Class Binder with Step by Step Exercises and Challenge Exercises
  • Microsoft Power BI Exercise Files with 1 year access to the files

WHAT TO BRING TO CLASS

  • We provide everything you need for our in-person classes. You just need to show up.
  • Come dressed for comfort. Jeans, Shorts, Yoga pants are all welcome!
  • Come ready to learn! Our classes are an intensive learning experience.

CLASS SCHEDULE

There are no public classes scheduled. If you would like to take this class, you have two options. If you have a group of people, you can book a private group class or if it is just for you, you can book a 1 on 1 training session to cover the class. Please use menu links at top of the page for those options
Date Location Price Registration

What is Power BI and who is this class designed for?

Power BI is Microsoft's industry-leading business intelligence platform used by data analysts, business professionals, and report developers to connect to data, build models, and create interactive dashboards. This class is designed for anyone who wants to move beyond Excel reporting and build professional-grade BI solutions — no prior Power BI experience is required.

Are there any prerequisites for this course?

Just basic computer skills

What software will be used for this class?

This class covers Microsoft Power BI Desktop. It does not cover Microsoft Power BI Service.

What is the difference between Power BI Desktop and the Power BI Service?

Power BI Desktop is the Windows application where you build your reports and data models. The Power BI Service is a cloud-based platform where you publish, share, and collaborate on those reports with others in your organization.

What is DAX and will we cover it in this class?

DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) is the formula language used in Power BI to create calculated columns, measures, and custom calculations. Yes — we cover DAX in depth, including functions for math, logic, text, dates, filtering, and time intelligence patterns.

How much does the class cost?

This standard price is $1190, but if you sign up 30 days in advance you get an early bird price of $1100.

Does this class qualify for CPE credits?

Yes! This class is accredited through the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy and earns 16 CPE (Continuing Professional Education) credits. You will receive a certificate of completion at the end of class.

Is there a live online option?

Yes. We offer this class in both in-person Dallas Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, Oklahoma City and live online formats. The online class is always led by a live instructor — not a pre-recorded video.

What do I need to bring to the in-person class?

Nothing! We provide a full-size training computer, class materials, and snacks and drinks throughout the day. Just bring yourself.

What materials do I take home after class?

You'll leave with the practice file used during class and a student handbook so you can continue practicing on your own schedule.

How big are the public classes?

In-person public classes are small — up to 6 students — so you get plenty of individual attention from the instructor.

Can my whole team take this class together?

Absolutely. We offer private group training tailored to your team's schedule, location, and skill level.

Is the training hands-on or lecture-based?

Yes. Our classes are highly interactive with guided labs and exercises so participants practice every concept rather than just watching demonstrations.

I have more questions?

Our AI Chatbot has a wealth of knowledge and can answer most standards questions. Feel free to use our AI Chatbot in bottom right of the screen, feel free to use our Contact Form, and feel free to call us at 817-841-9560.

Got More Questions?

We are here to help! Call us at 817-841-9560 or use our Contact Form to get in touch with us.