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New Power BI Dashboard Checklist: Great 15 Minute Activity To Get Good Results

checklists Sep 16, 2023
Power BI Dashboard Checklist

Creating a Power BI dashboard requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure it effectively conveys insights.

Here's a detailed checklist for creating a Power BI dashboard:

 

Define Objectives:

   - Clearly understand the purpose and goals of the dashboard.

   - Determine the key performance indicators (KPIs) to be tracked.

 

Data Source and Preparation:

   - Connect to relevant and reliable data sources.

   - Clean, transform, and model the data as needed for analysis.

 

User Persona:

   - Identify the target audience and their specific needs.

   - Tailor the dashboard to their level of expertise.

 

Dashboard Layout:

   - Plan the layout with a clear and logical structure.

   - Consider using a grid system for consistency.

 

Visual Selection:

   - Choose appropriate visuals (charts, graphs, tables) for each data point.

   - Ensure visuals are aligned with the objectives.

 

Visual Hierarchy:

   - Prioritize key insights using size, color, and positioning.

   - Use color coding for easy interpretation (e.g., red for negative trends).

 

Interactivity:

   - Implement slicers, filters, and drill-through actions for interactivity.

   - Add tooltips to provide context and details on data points.

 

Cross-Filtering and Highlighting:

   - Set up cross-filtering between visuals to maintain context.

   - Enable highlighting to emphasize selected data.

 

Data Labels and Legends:

   - Use clear and concise labels for data points.

   - Include legends and data keys for complex visuals.

 

Branding and Themes:

    - Apply consistent branding, colors, and fonts.

    - Use Power BI themes for a professional look.

 

Data Refresh:

    - Set up automatic data refresh to keep information up-to-date.

    - Ensure data refresh schedules align with business needs.

 

Mobile Responsiveness:

    - Design the dashboard to be responsive on various screen sizes.

    - Test the dashboard's functionality on mobile devices.

 

Drill-Through Pages:

    - Create drill-through pages for in-depth analysis.

    - Link visuals to these pages for seamless exploration.

 

Bookmarks and Buttons:

    - Use bookmarks to save specific states or views.

    - Add buttons for navigation or resetting filters.

 

Performance Optimization:

    - Optimize DAX calculations for faster loading.

    - Minimize unnecessary visuals and data.

 

User Training:

    - Provide training materials or guides on using the dashboard.

    - Offer tooltips or hints for first-time users.

 

Data Security:

    - Implement data-level security if required.

    - Define access controls and user permissions.

 

Accessibility:

    - Ensure the dashboard is accessible to all users.

    - Use alt text for visuals and maintain a logical reading order.

 

Testing:

    - Thoroughly test the dashboard for functionality and accuracy.

    - Conduct usability testing with representative users.

 

Documentation:

    - Create documentation that explains data sources, calculations, and visual choices.

    - Include a glossary for terms used in the dashboard.

 

Publishing and Sharing:

    - Publish the dashboard to Power BI Service or a suitable platform.

    - Define sharing permissions and access levels.

 

Monitoring and Maintenance:

    - Regularly monitor dashboard usage and performance.

    - Address issues, update visuals, and refresh data as needed.

 

User Feedback:

    - Establish a feedback mechanism for users to provide input.

    - Continuously improve the dashboard based on user suggestions.

 

Remember that a well-designed Power BI dashboard should provide actionable insights, be user-friendly, and adapt to changing business needs. Regularly review and refine your dashboard to ensure it remains effective and valuable

 

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