Power BI is a powerful data visualization and analytics tool that enables organizations to derive insights from their data. However, without proper governance standards, reports developed using Power BI can become inaccurate, inconsistent, and insecure. In this article, we will discuss 10 Power BI governance standards that should be followed when designing reports.?
- Develop a design system: A design system is a set of guidelines that standardize the design of reports. It includes color palettes, font styles, and other design elements that should be used consistently across all reports. This helps ensure consistency in branding and makes it easier for users to understand and navigate reports.?
- Choose appropriate visualizations: Visualizations play a crucial role in making data understandable and actionable. However, not all visualizations are appropriate for every type of data. Choosing the right visualizations for your data can enhance the report's effectiveness and make it easier to understand.?
- Use consistent formatting: Consistent formatting is important for ensuring that reports are easy to read and understand. This includes using consistent font sizes, spacing, and margins throughout the report.?
- Align with organizational goals: Reports developed using Power BI should be aligned with the organizational goals. The data presented in the reports should be relevant to the organization and provide insights that can be used to make informed decisions.?
- Develop reports with users in mind: Reports should be developed with the end-users in mind. This includes understanding the needs of the audience and designing reports that meet their needs. Reports should also be developed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that users with disabilities can access and understand the information.?
- Implement version control: Version control is crucial for ensuring that reports are accurate and up to date. This involves creating a system for managing versions of reports and tracking changes made to them.?
- Use secure data sources: Data security is essential for any organization. Reports should be based on secure data sources, and access to these sources should be controlled through user permissions and encryption.?
- Document report design: Documenting the report design process helps ensure consistency and transparency. This includes documenting the design decisions made, any assumptions made, and the data sources used.?
- Test reports thoroughly: Thoroughly testing reports is essential for ensuring accuracy and reliability. This includes unit testing and end-to-end testing to ensure that the report functions as expected.?
- Establish data refresh schedules: Data refresh schedules should be established to ensure that reports are updated regularly and provide up-to-date information. This includes identifying the data sources, defining the refresh frequency, and testing the refresh process.?
In conclusion, following these 10 Power BI governance standards for report design can help ensure that reports are accurate, consistent, and aligned with the organization's goals. By implementing these standards, organizations can increase the value they derive from their data and make more informed business decisions.?
