Reading .pbit Template Descriptions

[bchager6]

Hello all...

I'm investigating the use of .pbit files for version control and would need to see the template decription of a .pbit when viewing previously saved .pbit files. Some responses I've seen to this question are to 1) create a parameter and view the descriptions when the .pbit opens, or 2) view the template description when exporting it as (another?) template. If these are the only methods we can use to view template descriptions, it makes me question their value.

Is anyone aware of another, more user friendly way of viewing template descriptions?

[PeteD]

To view the template description, copy the .pbit to a .zip file and open the zip. (Alternatively open the .pbit in a zip program). In the zip there is a file called Metadata which is in JSON format. Field named FileDescription has the description as entered in the dialog box when the template was saved.

[v-frfei-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @bchager6 ,

Based on my research, it is not supported yet currently. There is an idea and about that you can vote it up and add your comments there to make this feature coming sooner.

https://ideas.powerbi.com/forums/265200-power-bi-ideas/suggestions/15700557-publish-online-model-fro...

[parry2k]

@bchager6 Great question. I don't think there is much options available there. How you see it working? 

[bchager6]

Off the top of my mind; the ability to publish templates to the service along with visible descriptions of them would be helpful. I'm failing to see the value of them as they stand, but maybe I'm missing something.