Bookmarks, field parameters, and page navigations – oh my! Power BI offers a treasure trove of features to create rich, interactive reports, but using them all can turn your project into a maintenance nightmare. This session explores the trade-off between exciting features and the technical debt they may introduce.
We'll walk through real-world examples of well-intentioned reports that spiraled into sluggish and bloated designs. You'll learn a framework to help decide when a feature adds real value… and when it just adds friction.
We'll also cover practical solutions including:
Automated report optimization using the AE Power BI Multi-Tool Suite for cleanup and standardization
Smarter alternatives to feature overload (e.g. field parameters vs. bookmarks, report themes vs. repetitive formatting)
Strategic report consolidation – merging related reports to reduce sprawl while preserving functionality
When and where to apply filters for maximum clarity and performance
Using tools like PowerOps and specialized PBIP analysis tools to audit reports and surface design risks automatically
Professional column width standardization across tables and matrices for consistent, readable reports
Balancing visual identity with report page sprawl – ensuring consistency without overwhelming the user
Advanced page copying techniques for reusing successful layouts without recreating from scratch
Building and leveraging reusable components – layouts, themes, and templates that save time and reduce inconsistencies across reports
Model diagram optimization for clearer data lineage and relationship understanding
Attendees will walk away with a practical decision-making strategy for applying Power BI's features intentionally, plus hands-on tools and techniques for maintaining report quality at scale. Whether you're a solo developer or part of an enterprise BI team, this session will help you deliver impactful reports without drowning in technical debt – and show you how to automate the cleanup process when things get messy.
Bonus: Attendees will receive access to professional-grade Power BI management tools developed by Analytic Endeavors, including automated report merging, cleanup utilities, and standardization tools that turn tedious maintenance tasks into one-click operations.