In this chapter, we took a tour of the model view of Power BI and learned how to build a data model by creating relationships between separate tables. In doing so, we learned about the different types of relationships, as well as the concept of cross filter direction. Next, we explored the data model we created to understand how we can use fields from different tables in the same visualization in order to gain insights into our data. Then, we created calculations to fulfill our goal of reporting on utilization. First, we created utilization calculations using calculated columns and began to understand the limitations of calculated columns and when they should and should not be used. Then, we created utilization calculations using measures in order to enable truly dynamic calculations that respond to user interaction.

Finally, we troubleshot our measure calculations by using a variety of techniques such as boundary condition checking, slicing, and grouping. Now that we have built the data model and required calculations, we are ready to start analyzing our data in order to understand how the data is organized.

In the next chapter, we will explore the many powerful features within Power BI that allow us to break down, analyze, and unlock insights about our data.