Class Introduction
The class focused on an introduction to Power Query in Power BI, led by the instructor from TeamAcademy. The session began with ensuring all participants had downloaded the necessary dataset and installed Power BI Desktop. The instructor explained the concept of converting data into information and discussed various data sources, such as Excel, PDF, databases, and online services. The class practiced loading data from Excel sheets and tables, and demonstrated how to extract data from PDF files and combine data from multiple files within a folder. The instructor also covered basic data transformation steps, including removing empty rows and using the 'Group By' feature for aggregation. Participants like Manel, Sahil, and Reem shared examples of data sources from their work environments. The session concluded with a recap of the topics covered and an invitation for questions.
Power Query Training Session
The team began an academic class on Power Query focused on converting data into information and preparing dashboards. The instructor guided participants through downloading and installing the necessary Power BI Desktop software and downloading a dataset from TeamAcademy.click/dataset. The class discussed the importance of having the correct setup, including using a laptop with two screens for better visibility during lab exercises. The instructor introduced a simple exercise about planning and actuals using the example of constructing a 10-meter wall, asking participants to calculate the completion percentage.
Power BI Data Integration Discussion
The team discussed data sources and reporting processes, with Manel explaining the importance of converting data into information through automation using Power BI. Team members shared various data sources they use, including Excel sheets, ERP systems, SharePoint, and P6, with clarification that Power BI can only import data in table format, not from charts, graphs, or images in documents like PowerPoint or Word. The discussion concluded with instructions for the team to open Power BI and explore its features, specifically looking at the version information under the Help menu.
Power BI Version Update Discussion
The team discussed updating Power BI to the latest version (July 2026) to ensure compatibility with new features and functionality. They explained the different data source options available in Power BI, including files, databases, and online services, with a focus on the benefits of direct database connections versus using intermediate files like Excel. The discussion included guidance on identifying the current Power BI version and instructions for accessing data sources through the new interface.
Related Offerings
Power BI Data Integration Automation
The team discussed data integration and automation using Power BI, with a focus on moving from manual Excel-based reporting to automated systems. The instructor explained the difference between on-premise and cloud-based systems using examples like Oracle and Fresha, and demonstrated how connecting data sources directly to Power BI can eliminate dependency on individual users like Manal who currently download data to Excel. The session included a practical exercise where participants were guided through loading and transforming data in Power BI, specifically comparing Excel workbooks, sheets, and tables.
Power BI and Excel Analytics
The team discussed how to view and analyze statistics in Power BI, including how to access column statistics and value distributions. They explained the importance of proper data formatting in Excel, distinguishing between working with data from tables versus entire sheets, and demonstrated how to properly extract data from formatted tables to avoid null values and unnecessary cleaning. The discussion included practical examples of data transformation in Power BI and Excel, with emphasis on best practices for handling different data sources.
PDF Data Extraction with Power BI
The team discussed how to extract data from PDF files using Power BI's Power Query feature. They demonstrated the process of loading a single PDF invoice and specifically selecting table data rather than the complete PDF document. The instructor then explained how to automate the process for multiple PDF files by connecting to a folder containing multiple PDFs, showing how Power BI can handle multiple files within a single data source.
Power Query Data Transformation Training
The team learned how to use Power Query to automate the combination and transformation of data from multiple Excel sheets and PDF files. The instructor demonstrated how to use the Combine feature to merge files with the same template, and showed how to apply data transformations including filtering and grouping operations. The session included a practical exercise where participants practiced these techniques with sample data, and the instructor explained that Power Query allows for modifying or undoing previous steps in the transformation process.
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