Load vs Transform Data

[space83]

What the different between Load and Transform Data?

Which 1 is best to use for direct query method?

[v-zhenbw-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @space83 ,

We think there is no best method, only suitable method.

It depends on your requirement.

If you want to create some measures or visuals firstly, you can load the data.

If you want to do some transformations using M query, you can click transform.

But there are some limitations by using Direct Query, so you need to pay attention when you use these two methods.

Please refer this article.

https://radacad.com/directquery-connection-in-power-bi-how-does-it-work-limitations-and-advantages

Best regards,

Community Support Team _ zhenbw

If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

[space83]

i just notice direct query are not supported transform data.

i think this is key point.

[Dilantha]

If you use sql database just try Stored procedure to import data. Its more efficent and easy to change.

[space83]

stored procedure are not support. there have some configuration need to enable at mssql database.

[PhilipTreacy]

@space83 

Load : Load the data into Power BI without making any changes to it.

Transform : Modify the data before loading it into Power BI

Further reading https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/power-query/power-query-what-is-power-query

Phil

[Dilantha]

When you load data you can use data directly as you import on power bi desktop.

If you use transform you can modify the data you already have or importing data.

Eg:

• change column names
• add columns
• change format etc