Power BI Embedding Best Practices with the Power BI JavaScript API

Understanding Power BI Embedding

Power BI embedding allows developers to integrate reports into their applications. This can be done either through User Owns Data or App Owns Data models.

• User Owns Data: This method is suitable for organizations where users have Power BI licenses. Developers use Azure AD access tokens associated with these users to embed reports.

• App Owns Data: This approach is used for customer-facing applications where users do not have individual licenses. Here, developers use service principles to manage access.

Basic Steps for Client-Side Code

For embedding Power BI reports, follow these basic steps:

1. Generate Access Token: First, authenticate with Azure AD to get an access token. This is essential for calling the Power BI REST API.

2. Call Power BI REST API: Use the acquired token to create an embed token or gather metadata about the workspace and reports.

3. Embed Reports in HTML: Use the Power BI JavaScript API to embed the report inside a designated HTML element.

Tools and Setup for Embedding

During the session, a demo showed how to set up an application using C# and .NET to create embedding pages automatically. The process involved:

• Setting up an app settings file in GitHub with necessary configurations.

• Running a console application that generates pages for embedding.

• Automating testing by refreshing the browser whenever changes are made in the code.

This framework simplifies the way developers can set embedding configurations and run their applications.

Interactive Features and Customizations

A significant part of the session focused on providing interactive features within embedded reports. Here are some key points:

• User Interaction: Developers can allow users to change views, apply filters, and navigate through reports using front-end controls.

• Dynamic Report Binding: This feature allows developers to bind reports to different datasets dynamically, making it easier to manage multiple clients while maintaining a single report version.

Handling Event-Driven Actions

Embedding Power BI also involves working with events. Developers can register event handlers for actions like loading the report, navigating pages, or selecting data points. Utilizing asynchronous programming with async and await keywords improves readability and maintainability of the code.

Advanced Techniques

Phased Embedding

Developers can employ phased embedding to control when the report is visible to users. By hiding the embedding container until the report is ready, the user experience improves.

Custom Menus and Commands

Adding custom commands to reports enhances functionality. For example, developers can create custom export options or other actions that can be triggered from report visuals.

Accessibility Features

Consider incorporating accessibility options such as contrast modes for users with visual impairments. This demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity in application design.

Conclusion

Embedding Power BI reports using the JavaScript API offers developers a powerful way to integrate analytics into applications. By following best practices, utilizing interactive features, and implementing advanced techniques, developers can create a seamless user experience. As Power BI continues to evolve, keeping up with best practices will ensure successful integrations and satisfied users.