Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Microsoft Data Analytics
This module defines key roles within the data analytics ecosystem, outlines the responsibilities of a Data Analyst, and provides an overview of the Power BI product portfolio for government applications.
Lessons
- Data Analytics and Microsoft Solutions
- Introduction to Power BI
Lab: Getting Started
- Initial Setup and Configuration
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Identify distinct roles within the data analytics field
- Describe the core tasks performed by a Data Analyst
- Summarize the Power BI product landscape and services
- Navigate the Power BI service environment
Module 2: Data Preparation in Power BI
This module covers the identification and retrieval of data from diverse sources. It examines connectivity options, storage strategies, and the performance trade-offs between DirectQuery and imported data models.
Lessons
- Data acquisition from multiple sources
- Performance optimization techniques
- Data error resolution
Lab: Preparing Data in Power BI Desktop
- Data Preparation Procedures
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Identify and extract data from various sources
- Evaluate connectivity methods and their performance impacts
- Optimize query efficiency
- Address common data import errors
Module 3: Data Cleaning, Transformation, and Loading
This module instructs participants on profiling data to assess its quality. It covers identifying anomalies, analyzing data structure, and applying transformations necessary to prepare data for model loading.
Lessons
- Data shaping strategies
- Enhancing data structures
- Data profiling techniques
Lab: Transforming and Loading Data
- Data Loading Operations
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Apply transformations to shape data effectively
- Improve the structural integrity of datasets
- Profile and evaluate data quality
Module 4: Data Model Design in Power BI
This module establishes fundamental principles for designing scalable and performant data models. It addresses common modeling challenges, including relationship management, security implementation, and performance tuning.
Lessons
- Foundations of data modeling
- Table manipulation techniques
- Dimensions and hierarchies
Lab: Data Modeling in Power BI Desktop
- Establishing Model Relationships
- Table Configuration
- Model Interface Review
- Developing Quick Measures
Lab: Advanced Data Modeling in Power BI Desktop
- Configuring Many-to-Many Relationships
- Implementing Row-Level Security
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Explain core data modeling concepts
- Define relationships and specify cardinality
- Implement dimensions and hierarchical structures
- Generate histograms and ranking metrics
Module 5: DAX Calculations in Power BI
This module introduces Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) and its capabilities for model enhancement. Participants will learn aggregations, the use of measures, calculated columns, tables, and Time Intelligence functions to resolve complex analytical problems.
Lessons
- Introduction to DAX
- Understanding DAX Context
- Advanced DAX Techniques
Lab: Introduction to DAX in Power BI Desktop
- Creating Calculated Tables
- Creating Calculated Columns
- Defining Measures
Lab: Advanced DAX in Power BI Desktop
- Manipulating Filter Context with CALCULATE()
- Applying Time Intelligence Functions
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of DAX principles
- Construct simple formulas and expressions using DAX
- Create calculated tables and measures
- Develop basic metric calculations
- Utilize Time Intelligence functions and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Module 6: Model Performance Optimization
This module outlines the processes, concepts, and best practices required to optimize data models for enterprise-level performance, ensuring efficient operation within government systems.
Lessons
- Model performance optimization strategies
- Optimizing DirectQuery Models
- Creating and Managing Aggregations
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Explain the utility of variables in DAX
- Enhance overall data model efficiency
- Optimize storage mode configurations
- Implement aggregation structures
Module 7: Report Design and Construction
This module covers the principles of designing effective reports, including visualization selection, layout planning, and essential functionality. It also addresses the critical aspect of designing for accessibility in compliance with government standards.
Lessons
- Report design fundamentals
- Report enhancement techniques
Lab: Report Design in Power BI
- Establishing Live Connections in Power BI Desktop
- Designing Report Layouts
- Configuring Visual Fields and Formatting Properties
Lab: Enhancing Power BI Reports with Interactivity and Formatting
- Creating and Configuring Sync Slicers
- Developing Drill-Through Pages
- Applying Conditional Formatting
- Utilizing Bookmarks for Navigation
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Design structured report page layouts
- Select and implement appropriate visualizations
- Integrate basic functional capabilities into reports
- Implement report navigation and interactive elements
- Optimize report load performance
- Apply accessibility design principles
Module 8: Dashboard Development
This module teaches techniques for conveying analytical narratives through dashboards. It covers available navigation tools, dashboard enhancement features, and strategies for improving usability and insight delivery.
Lessons
- Dashboard creation procedures
- Real-time Dashboard configurations
- Dashboard enhancement strategies
Lab: Designing Reports in Power BI Desktop - Part 1
- Creating Dashboards
- Pin Visuals to Dashboards
- Configuring Tile Alerts
- Utilizing Q&A for Dashboard Tiles
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Create functional dashboards
- Understand the mechanics of real-time dashboards
- Enhance dashboard usability for stakeholders
Module 9: Paginated Reports in Power BI
This module explains the purpose of paginated reports within the Power BI ecosystem and instructs participants on the creation and publication processes.
Lessons
- Overview of Paginated Reports
- Paginated Report Creation
Lab: Creating a Paginated Report
- Using Power BI Report Builder
- Designing Multi-Page Layouts
- Defining Data Sources
- Defining Datasets
- Configuring Report Parameters
- Exporting Reports to PDF
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Explain the function of paginated reports
- Create and publish paginated reports
- Configure data sources and datasets
- Utilize charts and tables in paginated layouts
- Publish reports to the Power BI service
Module 10: Advanced Analytics
This module applies advanced features to generate deeper analytical insights. Participants will learn to use report functions for detailed analysis and employ AI visuals to uncover meaningful patterns within government data.
Lessons
- Advanced Analytics Techniques
- Data Insights via AI Visuals
Lab: Data Analysis in Power BI Desktop
- Creating Animated Scatter Charts
- Forecasting Values Using Visuals
- Analyzing Decomposition Trees
- Utilizing Key Influencers Visuals
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Generate statistical summaries
- Use Analyze features for deeper inquiry
- Identify data outliers
- Conduct time-series analysis
- Implement AI visuals
- Utilize the Advanced Analytics custom visual
Module 11: Workspace Management
This module introduces Workspaces, covering creation and management procedures. It details methods for sharing content, including reports and dashboards, and distributing Apps to end-users.
Lessons
- Workspace Creation and Configuration
- Content Sharing and Asset Management
Lab: Publishing and Sharing Power BI Content
- Mapping Security Principals to Dataset Roles
- Sharing Dashboards
- Publishing Apps
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Create and manage Workspaces
- Facilitate workspace collaboration
- Monitor workspace usage and performance metrics
- Distribute Power BI Apps
Module 12: Dataset Management in Power BI
This module covers the management of Power BI assets, specifically datasets and Workspaces. It includes publishing datasets to the Power BI service, configuring refresh schedules, and implementing security measures.
Lessons
- Parameter Configuration
- Dataset Management
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Create and manage parameters
- Administer dataset lifecycles
- Configure automatic data refresh
- Troubleshoot gateway connectivity issues
Module 13: Row-Level Security (RLS)
This module provides instructions for implementing and configuring security controls in Power BI to protect sensitive government assets.
Lessons
- Power BI Security Framework
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Understand core Power BI security components
- Configure row-level security roles and group memberships
Requirements
Proficient Data Analysts enter this position with a proven background in utilizing cloud-based data resources.
Specifically:
- A grasp of foundational data principles.
- Competence in managing relational datasets within cloud environments.
- Competence in managing non-relational datasets within cloud environments.
- Familiarity with principles governing data analysis and visualization.
Candidates may fulfill these prerequisites and enhance their understanding of Azure data operations by completing the Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals certification prior to enrollment.
Audience profile
This curriculum is designed for data and business intelligence professionals seeking to master accurate data analysis techniques using Power BI. It is also intended for report developers who create visualizations from data platform technologies across both cloud and on-premises infrastructure, supporting effective governance for government stakeholders.
Job role: Data Analyst
Preparation for exam: DA-100
Features: none
Testimonials (5)
The coding and analysis, how the information come together in a report which will be useful for my work
Nokuthula Dhludhlu - National Transmission Company South Africa
Course - Analyzing Data with Power BI
opened my thinking on how to apply the knowledge gained.
Gabriel Govender - National Transmission Company South Africa
Course - Analyzing Data with Power BI
I liked that it demonstrated practical examples that I can apply in my day-to-day work which will improve my reports.
Nondumiso Mthembu - National Transmission Company South Africa
Course - Analyzing Data with Power BI
Blessing made sure that he knows every one , and referred every candidate by their name which is excellent. He is a well experienced Trainer and has patience, and very helpful to all the candidates. Trainer like him make the training more interesting. Wish to have him allocated to my next training that I will be doing with your company.
Alfred Mashala - National Transmission Company South Africa
Course - Analyzing Data with Power BI
I loved everything about the training especially the dashboard presentations
