Power BI Provides Enterprise Data Management

• Power BI data management capabilities can replace multiple components typically used in BI environments, such as data marts and tabular data models.
• Data management in Power BI is based on SQL Server Analysis Services, supporting complex data architectures and security requirements typically found in enterprises.
• The service could be easier to deploy and manage than connecting separate Azure data management components.
• Many capabilities are for Premium customers only, and all options have limitations and trade-offs.

(NOTE: Power BI Data Management has changed since 2021. For the latest details, please see the “Power BI Data Management” Roadmap entry.)

Power BI data management has expanded greatly over the years and now provides an integrated business intelligence (BI) platform for enterprises that prefer centralized data management for reporting and analysis. The service includes capabilities that can replace traditional components used in BI environments, such as data marts and SQL Server Analysis Services. However, to gain the most from their investment, customers should adopt a holistic approach that includes architecture, security, and deployment planning; training for IT staff; and ongoing maintenance and performance tuning.