What is Power BI?

Power BI is a business intelligence and data visualisation platform developed by Microsoft. It allows users to connect to a variety of data sources, transform and model data, and present insights through interactive dashboards and reports. Power BI is widely used to support decision-making and performance monitoring in both public and private sector organisations.

Its features include:

  • Connecting to data sources such as Excel, SQL, SharePoint, and cloud services
  • Transforming and cleaning data using Power Query
  • Creating interactive visuals including charts, tables, and maps
  • Building dashboards to monitor KPIs and performance
  • Using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) to perform calculations and modelling
  • Publishing and sharing reports across teams or departments
What Do Power BI Courses Cover?

Structured Power BI training helps users develop key technical and analytical skills. Most courses are suitable for beginners through to advanced users, and typically include:

  • Navigation and interface overview
  • Data import and transformation (ETL processes)
  • Building reports using charts, slicers, tables, and matrices
  • Understanding and applying DAX for calculations
  • Creating and sharing dashboards for different audiences
  • Security and workspace management

Courses are offered by providers such as Microsoft Learn, LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and training partners. Many are accessible at no cost or via organisational learning platforms.

Apprentices working in roles involving spreadsheets, reporting, or data tracking may find Power BI particularly useful for improving efficiency and communication of data insights.