# Exciting Enhancements in Microsoft Power BI: August Updates
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Chapter 1: Overview of Power BI Updates
In August, Microsoft introduced several noteworthy updates to its Business Intelligence tool, Power BI, which have the potential to enhance user experience significantly.
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Among the most exciting changes is the integration of Power BI into the Teams mobile application, a feature that has delighted many users. In addition, there are three other crucial updates worth exploring.
Section 1.1: Enhanced Datamart Query Editor
The Power BI Datamarts now include a fully managed SQL database, enabling users to perform relational database analytics with minimal coding. Recent enhancements have introduced several new functionalities, such as autosave, renaming options, and the ability to work with multiple query tabs.
The addition of multiple query tabs is a commendable decision aimed at facilitating business users. This will support self-service BI initiatives within organizations utilizing Power BI.
Section 1.2: Expanded Data Gateway Features
Users can now take advantage of the PostgreSQL connector within the virtual network data gateway, eliminating the need for a Data Source Name (DSN) or the installation of drivers. The on-premises data gateway has also received updates to ensure consistent report execution logic and refresh capabilities with the Power BI Service.
For data engineers and users accessing databases directly from Power BI, these enhancements should be particularly beneficial. Alternatively, organizations may consider utilizing Data Lakes or Data Warehouses, such as Azure Synapse, for more stable data management.
Chapter 2: Data Governance and Compliance Enhancements
The first video, Check out the new features for Power BI update May 2024!, provides a detailed overview of the latest enhancements to the platform, showcasing how these features can be utilized effectively.
Section 2.1: Advanced Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Options
The newly introduced Data Loss Prevention (DLP) policies help safeguard sensitive information within your Power BI tenant, ensuring compliance with data governance standards, including GDPR. Microsoft is expanding these functionalities with two new options: CPU metering for DLP policy assessment and the ability to override policy tips while reporting false positives.
This enhancement is particularly relevant for companies navigating the complexities of the Cloud Act and GDPR.
The second video, How to Stay Current with Power BI Updates and Roadmap, offers insights into maintaining awareness of ongoing updates and features within Power BI.
Section 2.2: Improved Integration with Azure Cloud
Power BI now allows Dataset Write permissions linked to Azure services, enabling users to assign detailed dataset rights similar to those of Azure Analysis Services databases. This development simplifies the migration of Azure Analysis Services databases to Power BI, allowing non-server admins to modify datasets without requiring elevated server admin privileges.
Summary
In conclusion, the August updates to Microsoft Power BI present significant enhancements aimed at improving data governance and supporting self-service BI initiatives. These advancements will undoubtedly help organizations leverage Power BI more effectively.
Sources and Further Reading
[1] Microsoft Power BI Blog, Announcing improvements to Datamart Query editor (2022)
[2] Microsoft Power BI Blog, On-premises data gateway August 2022 update is now available (2022)
[3] Microsoft Power BI Blog, Power BI paves the way for smooth Azure Analysis Services migrations (2022)