Microsoft Certified Power Bi Data Analyst Associate · Free Practice Question Medium
Question 28
At Skyline Technologies, your Power BI report requires data from a cloud-based CRM system.
✔ The dataset is moderately sized.
✔ Data is updated every two hours.
✔ Users prioritize performance but can tolerate a slight delay in data freshness.
Which connection mode should you choose?
-
A
Import
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B
Dual Mode
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C
Live Connection
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D
DirectQuery
Reveal correct answer
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Power BI provides multiple connection modes, each optimized for different use cases. Selecting the right mode depends on data size, refresh frequency, and user expectations regarding performance vs. real-time access.
Import mode is the best choice for this scenario, as it delivers high performance while still allowing scheduled refreshes to keep data relatively fresh.
Why Import Mode is Recommended?
Performance: Stores data in-memory, making queries and visuals load much faster.
Scheduled Refresh: Can refresh every two hours to match the CRM update frequency.
Optimized for CRM Data: CRM systems often store structured, relational data that fits well into Import mode.
For more details, refer to Power BI Data Connection Modes.
By using Import mode, the report remains fast and efficient, meeting both the performance and data freshness requirements of Skyline Technologies.
A.
Import mode loads data into Power BI's in-memory engine, ensuring fast performance. Scheduled refreshes every two hours allow for relatively fresh data without constant querying.
B.
Designed for composite models combining Import & DirectQuery. Unnecessary if the dataset fits well in memory and refreshes efficiently.
C.
Used for Analysis Services (SSAS), not cloud-based CRM systems. Not applicable to this scenario.
D.
Provides real-time data, but impacts performance due to constant database queries. Less suitable for a moderate dataset with scheduled updates.
Discussion
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