Changing the data source from model file in test to dev creates duplicate file in service

[TrevorC]

I have a model file that I use as a data source in a seperate report. I just realised that I had accidentally published the first version of the report with the data source pointing to the model file in Test. I want to change the data source to point to the version in Dev. When I do this and republish the file the service sees it as another file. This breaks the Power BI App. Is there a way to prevent this from happening?

Here is a link to a page describing the process: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/power-bi/guidance/report-separate-from-model

[GilbertQ · Accepted solution]

Hi @TrevorC 

Unfortunately this is by design that a new or different data source is treated as a different file (GUID)

The best thing I can suggest is to upload the correct file and then update the app to reflect the changes. 

If people use the Power BI App that should be fine because the name will still look the same.

[TrevorC]

I guess that makes sense. It would prevent overwirting files by mistake and mistakes happen just as it did with me using the wrong data source. 

I have tested and found that if a user has bookmarked a report in an app the booke mark will also break when changing the data source and publishing the new app. This is because the bookmark references the GUID as well. Of course executives are the ones who bookmarkthings most oftern...