#Power BI create help page

[inkeysolutions]

Unlock the Power of Your Data: 7 Secrets Microsoft Power BI Consultants Don’t Want You to Know

Have you ever felt like you're sitting on a goldmine of data, but all you have is a rusty shovel and a faded map? That's the reality for many businesses today. They're swimming in information, yet struggle to extract the insights that could propel them forward. Microsoft Power BI offers the promise of transforming raw numbers into actionable intelligence. But what if we told you there are some hidden strategies, the kind that often remain locked away within the toolkits of seasoned consultants?

7 Secrets Microsoft Power BI Consultants Don’t Want You to Know

1. The Art of the Data Model: It’s More Than Just Connecting Tables

2. Embrace DAX Like a Native Speaker

3. Storytelling Over Graphs: Crafting Compelling Narratives

4. Performance Optimization: The Devil is in the Details

5. Power Query: Your Secret Weapon for Data Munging

6. Go Beyond the Dashboard: Interactive Exploration

7. The Power of Community: Never Stop Learning

This isn't about throwing shade at the excellent work Microsoft Power BI consultants do—rather, it’s about empowering you to take control and maximize your Power BI investment. Here are 7 secrets they might not explicitly spell out, designed to help you unlock the full potential of your data:

1. The Art of the Data Model: It’s More Than Just Connecting Tables

Many users focus solely on creating visualizations, neglecting the backbone of any great Power BI report: the data model. A poorly structured model, while seemingly functional at first, can lead to performance issues, inaccurate calculations, and general frustration down the line. Secret: spend ample time designing your model carefully, understand your relationships, and think about the most efficient way to join your tables. Learn how to leverage DAX functions like CALCULATE properly for optimized measures.

2. Embrace DAX Like a Native Speaker

DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) is the language of Power BI, and while many beginner tutorials cover the basics, true mastery is required to unlock advanced analysis. Don’t just rely on the built-in calculation tools. Secret: invest in learning DAX properly. Understand context, filter propagation, and the power of functions like FILTER, ALL, and EARLIER. This will dramatically improve the performance of your reports and allow you to perform more complex analysis.

3. Storytelling Over Graphs: Crafting Compelling Narratives

Visualizations are powerful, but ultimately, they are just tools to communicate insights. The goal shouldn't be about creating the most visually stimulating chart, but about crafting a cohesive data story. Secret: before building reports, think about the main messages you want to convey. Guide the reader through your data. Think of your reports as a visual presentation that unfolds a story. Don't just throw graphs onto a page; create a flow. Consider using tooltips and drill downs to add detail without overwhelming the user.

4. Performance Optimization: The Devil is in the Details

Slow loading reports are a common source of headache. Secret: look under the hood. Are your datasets too large? Are you using the most efficient data types? Are your measures optimized for performance? Consider using storage mode that best matches your data requirements: import for fast load times or DirectQuery when live data is needed.

Read More: Discover How Power BI Consulting Can Change Everything

5. Power Query: Your Secret Weapon for Data Munging

Power Query is often seen as an add-on, but it should be a key part of your Power BI workflow. Secret: Don’t import messy data directly. Instead, use Power Query to clean, transform, and shape your data before it ever hits your model. This will not only prevent headaches down the line, but also significantly reduce your data model size and improve overall performance. For optimal data management, consider Microsoft power bi services such as dataflows.

6. Go Beyond the Dashboard: Interactive Exploration

While dashboards are great for at-a-glance information, Microsoft power bi expert users know that the real magic happens when users can dive deep and explore the data themselves. Secret: implement interactive features like slicers, cross-filtering, and drill-throughs to empower users to explore the data on their own terms. This will make insights more personalized and valuable.

7. The Power of Community: Never Stop Learning

Power BI is constantly evolving, and staying on top of the latest features can be challenging. Secret: engage with the Power BI community. There are countless forums, blogs, and online resources where you can learn from others, troubleshoot issues, and stay up-to-date on the newest features. A Microsoft Power BI consultant may not always tell you the easiest way is through collective learning. Leverage the Power BI community.

Conclusion:

Power BI is an incredibly powerful business intelligence tool, but only if you know how to use it effectively. By embracing these 7 secrets (which many consultants might not explicitly disclose), you can unlock hidden insights and drive more informed decisions.

Are you looking to fully leverage the power of your data with Microsoft Power BI? If you need help transforming your data into actionable insights, consider partnering with a team of experts. Inkey Solutions, for instance, offers comprehensive Microsoft Power BI consulting services, helping businesses of all sizes implement and optimize their data analytics strategies. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist you in achieving your business goals through the power of data.

[if-whats-new]

What's New In IF? Issue 2 (2025)

By Bex, Dion, Briar and Peter

Now Available!

Itch.io - Keep Reading below

If you read the zine, consider liking the post: it helps us see how many people see it! And sharing is caring! <3

~ EDITORIAL ~

It’s time for a revival!

As you might have noticed, our Column section has been dead for a while. We feel like it’s time to do something about that!

Want to write 1-2 pages about a neat topic, or deep-dive into a game and review it in details? Share personal experiences or get all academic?

Send us a message and we will be happy to feature it in our future Issues!

There’s power in numbers!

Are you an IF fan and would like a way to give back to the community? We’re once again looking for new members of our Team!

Do you enjoy keeping up with updates and finding new gems? Maybe you even enjoy working with Google Sheets?

Then our Tracker of News position is made just for you!

Contact us on any of our socials or email and help us stay on the top of our game and make our Database even better!

BEX, DION, BRIAR AND PETER

~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~

Most importantly:

WNiIF? is switching to a bi-weekly schedule!

Keeping up with news and releasing a new Issue every week is exhausting. We have decided to change it up a bit, hopefully preventing a possible burnout. We also hope that this will give us more time to make every Issue a bit better.

We thank you for your understanding.

What else?

Our X/Twitter account is no longer active. Please check out our other social media to keep an eye on releases and news.

We plan on releasing a special What’s 2024 in IF? Issue summing up all Issues that came out last year. This will include New Releases, Event Highlights, Columns, Game Highlights and more, making it easier for new readers to check out the Zine. The date of release is not set yet, but hopefully soon!

More exciting stuff is to be unveiled in the upcoming Issues!

~ EVENT SPOTLIGHT : Queer Vampire Game Jam 2025 ~

🦇 🥀 🕯 🪦 🩸

Queer Vampire Game Jam is a month-long interactive fiction game jam hosted by kit, nyehilism, that will run from January 10 - February 20th, 2025. The goal of this jam is to create more interactive fiction games about queer vampires, focusing both on queer relationships and queer experiences as told through a vampiric narrative.

Last year’s edition had over 50 amazing submissions. Give them a look too!

~ ENDED ~

The Queer Winter Game Jam is in full swing. Those interested can submit their work until January 16th 2025.

~ VOTING ~

Feeling nostalgic about the golden age of text adventures? Relive those days by participating in PunyComp 2024!

IF Short Games Showcase 2024 is a great way to shine some new light on projects made in the past year (Jan 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2024). You now have until January 25th 2025 to vote.

~ ONGOING (SUBMITTING) ~

Media depicting healthy examples of polyamory isn’t that common. The PolyJamorous 2024 is trying to break the status-quo!

ShuffleComp is a musical interactive fiction competition where you make games based on songs, which are submitted by other entrants. Creators have until January 20th 2025 to upload their works.

Once upon a time, a game jam was held to create stories around the theme of fairy tales… and that game jam is the Once Upon A Time VN Jam. It’s running from October 1st to January 31st.

Concours de Fiction Interactive Francophone 2025 is for all French-speaking enthusiasts. Submissions are accepted March 3rd 2025.

The Black Visual Novel Jam is all about working with creative professional developers who work in visual novels to bring more Black stories to life. The goal is to create a space where Black creators can show their unique storytelling through visual novels.

SeedComp! is a 2-round interactive fiction game jam, focusing on creativity and the growth of ideas and the Sprouting Round has just started! Check out the Planting round for inspiration.

BL stands for Boys' Love, a genre that focuses on romantic and emotional relationships between male characters. The Ultimate BL Visual Novel Game Jam is all about that!

Are you a fan of Vampires? Then lucky for you, because the Queer Vampire Game Jam is back!

Sealed With A Kiss Jam 2025 is a fantastical romance jam for all VN lovers!

The eighth annual Ace Jam is a game jam about creating games with asexual spectrum characters.

~ NEW RELEASE ~

Joyride To Hell (Ren’Py) After weeks of not hearing from your girlfriend she called you panicked, wanting to meet up with you. You want nothing more to do with her. But as they say, forgiveness is a virtue.

The Shadow Over Cyberspace (Ren’Py) From the same creators of Arcade Spirits. Time is running out, barter with gods, embrace the deathless aeons, or go offline permanently.

Full moon. Cold night. Dark shadow. Warm gun. The Beast of Glenkildove has stalked Ireland for centuries. Now, you must hunt it in Hunter: The Reckoning — The Beast of Glenkildove (CScript).

In Five Candles in the Meadow (Twine) even in the far flung future, penpals still exist. With a sea of stars between them, two young adults keep correspondence as best they can, with lone data relays acting as their heavenly messengers. @windsoflimbo

As always, don't forget to check out the submitted entries to the events mentioned in the previous pages. They deserve some love too!

~ NEW RELEASE (WIP) ~

After Mina Murray is reunited with her childhood friends Jonathan and Lucy Harker, they are all invited on a cruise to Transylvania with a mysterious man named Count Dracula. - Syndromedia's Dracula (Ren’Py)

Rite of Decay (Ren’Py) or, Sense in Self; The testimony of one Nastya V. Yarocz, Rot Physician, on the peculiar happenings at Pavia Manor following the death of honoured Guest Lord Kallistos of Arkhé. And on the even more curious romances she has forged therein.

House of Prestidigitation (CScript) is a school of magic game, a chance for you to pursue a specialty in the magical arts while competing in extra-curricular events, investigating clandestine clubs, and preventing a disastrous curse from carrying away the House before the end of term! You can also explore the strange history of the House itself, or turn your attention towards more romantic endeavours.

What will you do now that you find yourself in the captain’s chair of a starship tasked with exploration and diplomacy? Forge your name in the history of the Astral Alliance as a hero… or a traitor in Captain’s Log - Space Adventure (CScript).

In Time Fall (CScript) — Time does not wait for anyone, even for the one that controls it. Life in the undercity of Draeken, also known as The Depths, is brutal enough. But when an ill-fated encounter leaves you forever altered—your blood itself changed—you’ll soon realize that time is strange, and the thin fabric of reality a fickle thing. Even more so when it’s something you can no longer just witness … but may be forced to control.

Until the Dogs Come Home (CScript) is about war, though you play no part in it. Instead, you are the sole member of your hometown’s postal service, who must venture into fire and brimstone to bring the word of loved ones to the front lines. As the battle rages on and new truths come to light, your seemingly simple job transforms into a rescue mission, where the very lives of the people you were tasked to deliver to are in your hands.

In Velocity's Edge (Twine) as the adrenaline-soaked story unfolds, secrets are unveiled, loyalties are tested, and the pursuit of the checkered flag takes on a life of its own, propelling the characters toward the finish line which is only the beginning of the ultimate race. @velocitysedge-if

In the summer of 1984 you get a letter informing you of your mother's death. The first and only letter you get in ten years since you left your hometown. You stand in the middle of the old, tiny room that you can barely afford to rent and read it over and over again until the buzz at the back of your head quiets down. - There Are No People Left (Twine)

In Bride of Shadows (Twine) step into the tragic and fleeting existence of a Vestal of Dawn—a priestess bound by sacred vows of purity and an unwavering devotion to scripture. But when the sun goddess abandons you, your faith shatters. In your darkest moment, a tempting offer arises. A new covenant. A second chance at life... but at a cost. @bride-of-shadows-if

In Lecture Me Later (Unity) you wake up in a classroom way after your lecture concludes. The person who wakes you up looks familiar. Oh right, it's that one popular guy that everyone likes. With the light of the setting sun on your skin, you engage in conversation with the popular young man, realizing that things are taking a very scandalous turn, and that his interests are far more fascinating than you'd think. @lehxra-arts

~ UPDATES ~

A Shriek of Ash and Fire (CScript) added new content to their demo. @krogpile

Eldritch Tales: Inheritance (CScript) released second portion of Chapter 3. @darielivalyen

Keeper of Life and Death (CSscript) added new content to their demo. @keeperofthesunandmoon

Lightweaver: Chosen (CSscript) updated their demo. @lightweaver-chosen-if

My One and Only (CSscript) added new content to their demo. @reds-corner

Strings of Fate: Origins (CScript) released full Chapter 3.

The Eternal Library (CScript) updated their demo. @leiatalon

The Ultimate Magic Student (CScript) added new content to their demo

Thicker Than (CScript) updated their demo. @barbwritesstuff

Throne of Blood (CScript) released Zero and Cy’s aftermath Chapters. @throneofblood-if

Tri City Monsters (Ren’Py) released Akello Chapter 4. @tricitymonsters

Weeping Gods (CScript) updated their demo. @jcollinswrites

When Life Gives You Lemons (CScript) added new content to their demo. @when-life-gives-you-lemons-if

Chop Shop (CScript) released Episode 4. @losergames

Help! I Got Isekaied as a Lamia (CScript) added new content to the demo @succubus-interactivefiction

Marry My Stalker released Chapter 1.

The King's Hound (Twine) released the second half of Chapter 2. @the-kingshound

Hybrid (Twine) added new content to their demo. @heart-forge

~ OTHER ~

Mathbrush released Learning from the Best of Text [IF History Book], a collection of various historical essays about the history of interactive fiction as told through the lens of IFComp, the XYZZY Awards, and Spring Thing. (We thank Anon for bringing our attention to this release.)

When Winter Comes Again (Definitive Edition) (Ren’Py) is the fully remastered version of the romance visual novel originally released for mobile devices. Now available on PC, this edition brings an enhanced experience with improved visuals, and refined storytelling.

To Ashes You Shall Return (CScript) is looking for beta testers!

Sanguine Sky: Winter Special Collection of the short stories is out! @sanguinesky-if

let’s TEST IF#2: playtesting your game is also out! @golmac

As you might have heard, Dashingdon, a free ChoiceScript game hosting service, will be shutting down at the end of the month. All users and games will be permanently deleted. (Read more here)

If you know about a project that’s moving to an alternative hosting service, please consider updating the link in our Database. Our Team will be working on this in the upcoming weeks, but any help would be appreciated.

As always, we apologize in advance for missing any update or release from the past week. We are only volunteers using their limited free time to find as much as we can - but sometimes things pass through the cracks. If you think something should have been included in this week's zine but did not appear, please shoot us a message! We'll do our best to add it next week! And if you know oncoming news, add it here!

~ MAYBE YOU NEXT? ~

We did not get a submission this week. But if you have an idea for a short essay, or would like a special space to share your thoughts about IF and the community...

Shoot us an email!

~ HIGHLIGHT ON ~

A couple of games that we thought were cool.

Velocity's Edge by Amelia (Twine).

It's the first F1 based interactive fiction I've seen! Its very unique!

//submitted by anon//

Your favourite game here?

Do you have a favourite game that deserves some highlighting?

An old or recent game that wowed you so much you spam it to everyone?

Tell us about it! And it might appear here!

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU ALL! WHETHER IT'S GOOD OR BAD, OR EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN...

Have something to say? Send us a message titled: Zine Letter!

As we end this issue, we would like to thank:

our anons

For sending us a Highlight and news!!

And as always, huge thanks to all you readers who liked, shared, and commented on last week's issue! What might be tiny actions are huge support and motivators to us!

Thank you for cheering us on this journey!

See you in two weeks!

BEX, DION, BRIAR AND PETER

WHAT'S NEW IN IF? 2025-ISSUE 2

THIS ZINE ONLY HAPPENS WITH YOU!

Want to write 1-2 pages about a neat topic, or deep-dive into a game and review it in details? Share personal experiences or get all academic?

WRITE FOR THE COLUMN!

Prefer to be more low-key but still have something to share? Send us a Zine Letter or share a game title for Highlight on…!

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Came across something interesting? Know a release or an update announced? Saw an event happening? Whether it's a game, an article, a podcast… Add any IF-related content to our mini-database!

EVERY LITTLE BIT COUNTS!

Contact us through Tumblr asks, Forum DMs, or even by email! And thank you for your help!!

[kidovna]

You’re fairly notorious for making really incredible and dynamic mini comic strips. I love making them as well but really struggle with creating a layout on a canvas. Do you make the sketches individually and then lay them out in comic form or do you do the entirety of the comic one page at a time? All this is to ask if you have any tips or suggestions on how to improve at making more dynamic mini comics?

I’m so glad you think my comics are dynamic! I’ll try my best to explain my comic making process in this answer:

I almost always start with the dialogues on my notes app. This process usually happens in the middle of the night when I’m struck with an idea but I have no energy to draw anything. I find it very useful to try and figure out how many pieces of dialogue there are in the comic and how many pages it might take. This is how the initial notes for this comic from @spideywillandmjwheeler looked (you can see that I’ve made changes in the final version):

Next, I always work on the layout. I imagine the scene in my head and try to understand how the panelling should look. What dialogue requires a bigger panel, what requires a spread, etc. this was the base of the bi Mike comic:

Here’s a little insight into how I do the panelling and how I make the choices with the sizes of the panels based on importance (from the Will with powers comic):

Once I do the layout, I basically just get started with the lines and colours and see what works best and then it’s the usual illustration process. It’s almost always this exact same process and with time and practice, each comic gets easier to work on. Sometimes I have an idea for a panel (like the one below. This is four whole panels but drawn as a spread instead) that I get very excited about because I’m like “wow, that’s kind of genius” and I keep hoping that I get more creative with it as time goes.

I hope this was a little helpful and what you were looking for! I’d say trust your gut in the comic making process and don’t feel limited by the panels. Things and characters can move out of the boxes and you can have all sorts of fun with it. Just remember to keep a certain amount of structure to the pages so that the comic is readable :D

[sleepyhead-poll]

ROUND 1D, MATCH 16 OUT OF 16!

Propaganda Under the Cut:

Linhardt von Hevring:

linhardt has like 1 goal in life and its to be able to sleep as much as he wants and research whatever he wants without any pressure from anyone or anything <3 quote from his wiki page: "he often flutters from interests and is only able to focus on whatever fancies him in the moment. Additionally, his extreme disinterest in anything off-topic will cause him to become drowsy and/or fall asleep." he's neurodivergent as hell

Bro just wants to sleep instead of going to war. He took a nap in the cafeteria with a fucking pillow. Bro is so sleepy and wanting to nap all day that he can’t even be bothered to introduce himself properly “Linhardt. Goodbye.” Anyway he is the best sleepy boy :)

Besides being the Goddess' sleepiest soldier, Linhardt is literally introduced in a cutscene falling asleep mid-lecture and his personal ability is called Catnap ('Snooze' in Japanese). Catnap allows Linhardt to recover HP if he doesn't take any actions during a turn. 🙏 Bro is sleeping on the battlefield

He's just a sleepy boy who brings a pillow around to sleep and doesn't give a fuck. His conversation during the great tree moon(april)? About how it's the best time to sleep? He's damn right.

Not really currently but they're really cool and sleepy and also bi

Just a sleepy guy who wants to nap over studying and battling.

Eepy eepy boy:) also most likely autistic

he’s so eepy!!!!!! the eepiest!!!!!!!! it’s one of his defining traits also he’s one of the only characters you can gay marry in the game

Chill and sleepy.

He is such a sleepyhead. He tends to come across as ditzy or spacey to others, when often he is just so so so sleepy. He caries around a pillow sometimes because he'll sleep wherever and whenever. He doesn't seem to care that others find it distasteful, because he's happy getting lots of sleep. He may have narcolepsy; but it doesn't seem to be an established word in canon so most people things he's lazy or avoidant of things, when he really just can't help it. As the teacher you can acknowledge him though and validate that being sleepy doesnt mean hes wrong, as long as he works hard when he's awake. Despite his sleepy though he's there for his friends in battle (usually as a healer in my games since he's not a fan of violence) and just lives a long nap afterwards.

Sothis:

She is THE sleepy. The first cutscene of this game occurs in the protagonist's (Byleth) dream where they watch Sothis awake for the first time, complete with a ton of yawning and nagging. Throughout the game Sothis exists as a voice in Byleth's head who frequently succumbs to tiredness when she and/or Byleth runs into confusion. (Spoilers ahead!) The reason for this is that Sothis existed in the ancient era as a god-like individual who was murdered while stuck in a deep slumber, recovering from exerting her powers. After hundreds of years Sothis' remains became separated as a sword and a magical stone that powers it. The stone was implanted into Byleth when they were born, creating a connection between them and Sothis due to the circumstances surrounding their birth. At the start of the game Byleth manages to reawaken Sothis and she appears to them as a sleepy, amnesiac child to them because of her fractured state. Later on, Sothis fuses herself with the protagonist's soul to save them from certain doom and she stops appearing to them until much later when Byleth falls into a deep ravine. In the darkness, Sothis urges Byleth to wake up, having undergone a similar slumber as she had centuries before to heal. Sothis' story is very deeply tied to sleeping and I could ramble even more but this is long enough as it is

[ditzydisaster13]

New Voltron Idea Prompt.

This is a Musical Langst idea.

This prompt belongs to me. Any usage of it must be gained with permission and then proper credits to me.

Lance finds a space radio station. And becomes a part of it. Hes a minor dj that searches for new artists through a version of space youtube, space music apps, space entertainment channels, and even space news articles regarding all of that. Hes even made his own page on one of them for making songs, and sharing them. Without a face reveal. But he has a character thing with a special design. He even has some cery minor merch when he gets more popular. Which is fairly so. Because he Djs and makes music. But hes most well loved because he makes people wanna listen to music more and also make music more now than ever during the war. Hes somehow created more allies than much of team Voltron has. And has also captured the hearts of many who are already allies, who believe they recognize his voice. He had a private server thing. where he talks about his songs, artists he likes, interviews, a merch and podcast station, and stuff like this. -> the planet they visit is actually made up of very many people that Lance had helped through his contributions to the radio station.

My very specific version of this story has Lance as Bisexual/Demi-Sexual. Panromantic. Freckles with curly hair that he straightens and covers with makeup. He has Narcolepsy, ADHD, generalized Anxiety disorder (like hunk) might be autistic. And other things. He was captured by the Galra at one point: leaving him with an Altean tech prosthetic leg, above the knee, and a blind eye. But he has amnesia from the whole event. And not a single memory, even still. Lance is also Multilingual, an empath, sorta. Like it’s not specified as a super power. But it might as well be. He’s actually super intelligent. But likes that he can be a different version of himself that doesn’t take away from the talents that the others also have like tech, fighting, and cooking. Lance still has doubts. But he’s better. Him and Allura are best friends, he’s closer with Pidge and even Hunk than ever before. This contains Shiro X Allura. (I know that he’s gay, but we can make him Bi- shh) eventual Klance, Pining Keith, Happy-with-any-sort-of-relationship with-Keith Lance, and so much more I have to say.

I’m super excited for when I’ll be able to post this. I don’t know how long it will be yet. But it’s definitely gonna be a book. Title ideas would be much appreciated. And once again, let me know either here or private message me if you wanna use a version of this prompt. I’ll be sharing soon how it should look and be set up if you do use it.

[lestbian]

All our lives we have been taught that those of us who do the work of the world are not the agents of historical change. Instead, we are told that the only way we can have any impact on the direction of the economy, or society as a whole, is to vote once every four years for one of two parties that are funded by and beholden to big business. Since the 1930's, the Republican and Democratic Party have played hard cop, soft cop when it comes to domestic economic policy. The Democratic Party has taken credit for legislative reforms like the New Deal. But do Democrats really deserve that credit? This is an important question, especially since some in the lesbian, gay, bi, and trans communities look to the Democratic Party as a vehicle of progressive reform. So how the New Deal was won, for example, has meaning for our movement. Franklin Roosevelt, a Democrat, took office three years after the cataclysmic 1929 capitalist economic crash. His administration presided during a powerful mass upsurge of the working class that threatened to erupt into a general working-class rebellion. The Roosevelt administration was in charge of trying to quell this pre-revolutionary surge. His job was to save capitalism. And the New Deal was meant to do just that. And so the New Deal was a great legislative victory wrested through struggle. Workers won it. Democrat Lyndon Johnson was similarly forced to make concessions... His administration created new social programs like the "War on Poverty" in order to buy social peace at home, while waging war in Vietnam. These policies, plus the strong war economy, helped isolate young middle-class activists and keep rebellion from sweeping the entire working class. The Democratic Party cannot lead us forward to trans liberation. They've led us into war and economic austerity: Woodrow Wilson led the United States into World War I; Franklin Roosevelt led the country into World War II. Truman started the Korean War. John Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson began and widened the Vietnam War. ... The process of transferring wealth from working people to the wealthy continued after Reagan. The rate actually accelerated during the first four years of the Clinton Democratic administration. Whether a Democrat or a Republican presides, both parties administer the same system on behalf of big business. As the trans struggle unfolds, it will become critical to develop an independent movement that can free itself from the grip of "lesser-of-two-evils" politics of waiting to get another Democrat in office. The truth is, you and I are the stuff that great leaders are made of... The ranks of rebellions and revolutions that have shaped human history have been made up of people like you and me. That history lesson has been purposely kept from us. ... The people who make a difference in history are those who fight for freedom--not because they're guaranteed to succeed--but because it's the right thing to do. And that's the kind of fighters that history demands today. Not those who worship the accomplished fact. Not those who can only believe in what is visible today. But instead, people of conscience who dedicate their lives to what needs to be won, and what can be won. I am confident that you and I will find each other, shoulder-to-shoulder, in that historic struggle.

Leslie Feinberg, Trans Liberation: Beyond Pink or Blue, pages 139-144

[thisworldisablackhole]

Kind of Like Spitting Nothing Makes Sense Without It

🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕

FFO: CARISSA'S WIERD, EMO, INDIE / LISTEN

Born in 1996 from the Portland bedroom of singer/songwriter Ben Barnett, Kind of Like Spitting would unfurl itself in the form of acoustic demo recordings. With a single room mic picking up the static electricity of the room, Ben bled himself dry for all friends and family to witness. Though primarily a solo project, Ben's knack for emotional songwriting was enough to garner the interest of peers, and he seemingly had no problem recruiting help to flesh out his expressions. Songs like Power Chords, Winter, and Lazer Diagram on the first ever KOLS demo cassette showcased a charming rag tag group of kids just trying to figure out how to play in unison. It was fun.

Over the next 4 years, Ben and his companions would rapidly improve their talent through the sheer force of his compulsive urge to create. Multiple splits, comp. contributions, an EP, and first official full length You Secretly Want Me Dead (released in 1997) would see Ben take his ideas from noisy bedroom recordings to professional studio sessions. During this period he wrote and recorded quite a few versions of songs that would end up on the genre defining Y2K release Nothing Makes Sense Without It.

Nothing Makes Sense Without It is emo in it’s most raw, stripped down form. It's an album that requires a certain caliber of stability to indulge oneself in, for like a cursed mirror, any sense of uncertainty in the viewer would cause the reflection to shatter inward. And let's be honest - the mirror is always shattering. Over and over again. Shards of glass take shape of a crystalline heart pumping cold battery acid to your blue lips. It is almost impossible to remain composed in the wake of Ben's untuned and unfiltered cries as he recounts rejection and failed attempts to foster love for himself or others. Being diagnosed as bi-polar, any attempt for connection was inherently built on a foundation of sand. In the sixth track Out of Harm's Way... Finally, he put's it bluntly; "She hated that about me, that I could never be OK. When it broke us forever, it all resembled TV".

The lyrics on this album are almost embarrassing in their vulnerability, and Ben is fully self aware of how his internal strife affects the ones closest to him. He knows he's a vibe killer and he feels god damn awful about it, but he can't control it. In the song 1930 Oak 1995 he describes leaving his love interest at a house party upon the realization of how much happier she was around any one else but him. He walks home alone and sings "Back in my bedroom, red lights flashed. It's the first time that I ate food just because I was sad". Ben doesn't waste time obscuring his feeling in metaphors, his straight forward honesty rushes forth like guts from the gaping wound of ritual disembowelment.

Musically speaking, this record blends the somber acoustic stylings of Elliot Smith with the sleepy heartbeat rhythm of Low's I Could Live in Hope. Drums are sparse, but when the snare hits it feels like a hammer, painstakingly inserting the final nail into your soft tender skull. The full band experience really comes to life with the addition of poignant drawls from the violin. Tracks like Birds of a Feather and Dodge Dart really exemplify how far the musicianship has come since the early days of dusty 4 track recordings. Dodge Dart in particular really kicks the energy up a notch and makes you wonder what a full length album would sound like if Kind of Like Spitting was a rambunctious skramz band. All of this is interwoven with sad, solo acoustic songs that sound like whispered voice notes from a wounded animal; shipped off in sea bound glass bottles with the hope that some day, just maybe, they will make you feel the same hurt. The result of this mixture is an album packed full of dynamic shades of red, black and blue, like the scratched out pages of your highschool journal.

Nothing Makes Sense Without It is nothing short of a triumph given that it's over 20 years old and still contains one of the most profound transcriptions of sadness to ever be recorded. The scope of it's sickeningly raw honesty and depressive instrumentation would go on to influence a generation of singer songwriters in the emo space; burning out on the bedroom floor to make sense of themselves.

There's only so much time you can waste on me.

[sntechsupport]

Dear Tech Support,

I believe you are the correct professionals to contact in this scenario, as my son handed me a card with web address on it.

I was minding my business, reading the news paper and enjoying the humorous article on mortgage rates in my local area when in comes my son! This is normal, as it's not like I lock him inside, but he seemed extra vigorous today.

I asked, "Woah Champ, what has your britches on fire?!"

My son, predictably, rolled his eyes at me and proclaimed that he had got some early release of a hot new game. I cant recall the name is it sounded like one of those web slang words. I, like a father should, reminded him to do his homework first before playing whatever game with his friends and sent him off.

Regardless, for the sake of brevity I will simply state that afterwards I went into my personal longue to ponder the universe and my place in it, then everything started shining white!

When I blinked the spots out of my eyes, I ran out to the living room and couldn't help but notice a series of home invaders with backwards hats, paddings, what were almost insectiod in nature were accosting my boy with skateboards.

Luckily, like any fine gentleman, I was armed with my Nine Iron and made quick work of the little buggers. They proceeded to explode and throw some oddly shaped candy everywhere.

After adjusting my suit, my son hugged me tight, handed me a business card with your information, and asked me to ask you I quote" What the fuck is going on?"

I denounce the language used in this inquiry, but endorse it's spirit.

I would write a more detailed letter, but it appears that the big brothers and sisters of the earlier hooligans have started marching on my lawn

Warm Regards,

Robert Samson, CFO of Men's Leisurely Sporting Bi-Monthly.

Dear Mr. Samson,

first a brief summary of your current situation: Your estate has entered the Medium - a aide reality in which the game exists. This allows for the most immersive game experience for all Players (such as: your son). You don’t have to imagine what it would be like to be in the game; you are in the game! Since the Incinisphere, as the reality bubble of the Medium you are in is called, generates its own power and signal, you are going to save a ton on electricity, phone, and internet bills.

The invaders in your house are called Underlings, killing them provides experience points, which allow you to get stronger and deal with enemies more efficiently, and resources, which are used for upgrading your living suite and Alchemizing - a process in which you create new equipment and other objects out of existing ones.

I suggest that you and Mr. Samson Jr. improve your current strife specibi and perhaps also Alchemize yourself some boosting accessories to deal with the larger underlings in your immediate vicinity. Afterwards/Meanwhile your son’s Server player (a friend online playing along) ought to build your house tall enough to comfortably reach the first Gate straight above it - it is a portal that leads to the Land on which your estate is currently located, it should be near a settlement of friendly Consorts.

While at it, your son is supposed to act as the Server Player to his Client Player - deploy their cruxtruder, alchemizer, totem lathe, and expand their house vertically.

For further information go to our website, you should have the address at the bottom of business card, and download the Game Manual. It is hard to miss it is the big button in the middle of the home page. Consult this Manual, it is a very informative pdf.

Sincerely

SN Tech Support (Gear)

[wivendev]

Major Update #2 0.03

Welcome back to the page! Wiven has recently got its 2nd major update, and we have lots to share! Lets start :)

Whats new with the games?

Zombie Slashout

Zombie Slashout is a game based on defending a castle that is under attack by hundreds of zombies! If they reach the castle before you get to them, they will slowly deplete the castles health!

The Sword

The sword is how you defend yourself, its a close range melee weapon that can only hit from a close range.

Powerups

Alongside the sword, there are 3 other items that can help you defend the castle!

Health kit

Once collected, it will give the castle a health boost of 25+ HP!

Sharpening stone

The sharpening stone, while slightly more uncommon than health kits, give your sword more damage!

Lightning

Lightning is a rare power-up that gives the player super speed, extra jump height, 2x damage, etc! Its rather overpowered, but it can help out alot!

Aura Kill

The Aura Kill is a special ability that wipes out any nearby zombie, every zombie killed by it adds +2 HP to the castle, and it has a 1 minute cooldown (5 seconds if the lightning powerup is activated)

Day / Night

We also added a day / night cycle, just mostly for aesthetic purposes, it could be used in future games!

Inner workings

A new "game permissions" template is being developed to make creating wiven games easier! Its just a short string of numbers, and includes the information for the day/night cycle, the field of view, the players speed and jumpheight and what weapon is used within the game!

What does the future hold?

Version 0.04 will be a more small one, and will mostly be focused on adding a UI update! Adding a scrolling menu for the more games tab, and also a functional badge page that displays your achievements!

Thank you for reading! We have established a new schedule, with every Sunday being a leak of the week, and every Monday being an actual update! They will interchange bi-weekly between minor updates and major ones :)

We hope to update some good stuff soon! See you then!

[everybodysinvited]

Hello there!

Hey Folks! Here's an introduction about myself and this blog, how it started and what it's all about.💖✨

I'm Phoebe, (she/they) and I'm a freelance illustrator! This blog originally started as my final project for uni in 2021, as an Instagram page where I created illustrated, infographic posts on sex ed topics that are often missed or considered taboo in school sex education. I started the project in response to my personal reflection and discussions with friends about our disappointment with our own school sex education experience. It's such and important topic and whilst the teachings have slowly begun to improve, there's still a long way to go. Plus, I believe in the power of art as a learning tool babyyy! and I wanna use my powers for good.

Since graduating, I have continued to research and work on the @everybodys_invited Instagram account, in my spare time as a sort of personal passion project. To broaden the page's reach, (and to avoid Instagram's censorship of RSHE materials) I decided to create a Tumblr, because I though it might be slightly better! 🤞

So for now the posts will be a mix of re-uploads from Instagram and some more recently made posts, just until I clear my backlog. I might upload them in a different order to my Instagram too, as some posts are seasonal! (e.g. Pride month, National kink day, Bi awareness week etc)

My hope is, by using Tumblr, I can make my posts more accessible than on Instagram, with ID, and including links to any sources and useful resources I use or think are cool.

I believe everyone deserves a helpful, inclusive and positive sex education and I hope this blog will help cultivate a more insightful RSHE community! I want to keep this blog going as long as I can as I find the subject matter fascinating and fun to learn about, as well as a great outlet for my creative practice.

💥IMPORTANT💥 I am not a qualified health professional, so please, if you have any questions or concerns about your own sexual health, please see a GP or sexual health clinic.

Finally, I'm still learning as I go, so if there are any topics you want me to cover or if there are ways you think I can improve your learning experience on this blog, please let me know, I am open to ideas!

That's all for now folks!

[ellrond]

What if I said 0 for Celebrian what then

then i would kiss you under the stars. on the mouth.

What would their social media page/activity be like? she'd be a coquette girly I think, very millennial in its organisation and theming, all very curated on inta. her tumblr would be lana del rey and pale cottagecore good for her. Her LinkedIn would be so organised and professional as well, but her twitter would just be so horny. her likes would be public and it'd be a lot of porn <3

What animal they remind me of? a doe - gentle and peaceful and a bit timid and beautiful to behold

My thoughts on their design/aesthetic? shes a plus size coquette girly honestly to me she's all pastels and lace and flowers and shes the gentle spring to elrond's kind summer

Physical headcanons? i adore the physical design that @essenceofarda has for Celebrian - plus size, freckly, beautiful gap tooth, round cheeks and long hair!! that is canon to me

Social headcanons? she is kind and generally well liked but doesn't have a close knit group of friends; she prefers to keep a bit of distance between her and others. It's easy for her to feign intimacy with others that is somewhat surface level but comfortable

Psycological headcanons? Like Galadriel, she fears the passing of time and how quickly it affects the world around her. She is uncomfortable at the thought of how fast the seasons change and the life cycle of flora and fauna. She is relieved when Galadriel passes the Elessar to her and she is able to slow down time. She prefers things to stay the same, for people to stay the same, and fears significant change because she grew up knowing the changes that her parents had to endure. She can't help but associate change and upheaval with bad things.

Ships with them I like? Elrond/Celebrian until the day I die. I'm also a sucker for toxic Celebrian/Celebrimbor. The idea of her having romantic/sexual relationships with women earlier on in her life is very important to me too (bi icon!) but there isn't a specific female character available to ship her with (thanks for nothing Jirt).

Made-up connections with other characters that weren't in the canon? n/a

Headcanons about their past? For the longest time I've had the headcanon that she was shaved bald during her torment with the orcs. The first time I posted about it was about 10 years ago, and someone even cosplayed it back then! I've seen a few other people create art / talk about it too, so I think it's something that different people have come up with independently since too which is cool! Hive mind mentality etc. Also I envision her to have a difficult relationship with Galadriel, and a much easier one with Celeborn.

Content about them I'd like to see more of? Canonical content - mentions or appearances of her in Rings of Power would soothe my soul although I worry about their portrayal of her. If we get warrior!Celebrian I'm going to lose my mind. Mentions of her in lotro make me insane in a good way!

[lucajack123]

Maximize Your Data Insights: Lesser-Known Power BI Advantages

Power BI has established itself as a go-to tool for data visualization and business intelligence. However, beyond its popular features lie several lesser-known advantages that can significantly enhance how businesses analyze and leverage their data. Here are some of the hidden gems of Power BI that can help you maximize your data insights:

 For those looking to enhance their skills, Power BI Online Training & Placement programs offer comprehensive education and job placement assistance, making it easier to master this tool and advance your career.

1. Advanced Analytics with R and Python Integration

Power BI allows integration with R and Python, two powerful programming languages used for statistical analysis and machine learning. This feature enables data scientists and analysts to perform advanced analytics directly within Power BI, creating complex models and custom visualizations that go beyond standard capabilities.

2. Paginated Reports for Detailed Reporting

For users who need detailed, print-ready reports, Power BI offers paginated reports. These reports are designed to be pixel-perfect and can handle large volumes of data across multiple pages. They are ideal for financial reports, invoices, and other documents that require precise formatting and layout.

3. Q&A Explorer

The Q&A feature in Power BI goes beyond basic natural language queries. The Q&A Explorer provides users with a guided experience to refine their questions and discover insights they might not have considered. This interactive exploration helps uncover trends and patterns that can drive better business decisions.

4. Geographic Mapping with ArcGIS

Power BI’s integration with ArcGIS by Esri enhances its mapping capabilities, allowing for richer geographic data visualizations. Users can overlay data onto detailed maps, analyze spatial data, and gain insights into location-based trends, which is invaluable for industries like retail, logistics, and real estate.

5. Custom Data Connectors

Power BI supports custom data connectors, allowing businesses to connect to virtually any data source. Whether it’s a proprietary database or a less common third-party application, custom connectors ensure that no data source is left out of the analytics process. It’s simpler to master this tool and progress your profession with the help of Best Online Training & Placement programs, which provide thorough instruction and job placement support to anyone seeking to improve their talents.

6. Sensitivity Labels for Data Security

In environments where data security is paramount, Power BI’s sensitivity labels feature helps maintain control over data access and usage. Users can classify data according to its sensitivity level, ensuring that sensitive information is handled appropriately and in compliance with regulatory requirements.

7. Insights and Suggestions

Power BI offers built-in insights and suggestions that help users discover patterns in their data without extensive manual analysis. These AI-driven insights highlight trends, outliers, and key metrics, providing valuable recommendations for further exploration.

8. Multi-Language Support for Global Teams

For organizations with a global presence, Power BI’s multi-language support allows reports and dashboards to be created and consumed in different languages. This facilitates better communication and collaboration across teams in various regions.

9. Custom Navigation and Branding

Power BI offers customization options for navigation and branding within reports. Users can create custom menus, navigation paths, and apply their company’s branding to ensure that the user experience is intuitive and aligned with corporate identity.

10. Scalability with Azure Synapse Analytics

Power BI’s integration with Azure Synapse Analytics provides a scalable solution for big data analytics. Users can handle massive datasets and complex queries with ease, ensuring that performance remains optimal even as data volumes grow.

Conclusion: Unlock the Full Potential of Power BI

Power BI is more than just a data visualization tool; it’s a comprehensive platform that offers a wide range of features to enhance data analysis and reporting. By exploring these lesser-known advantages, businesses can unlock deeper insights, improve data-driven decision-making, and stay ahead in a competitive landscape. Whether it’s through advanced analytics, enhanced security, or global collaboration, Power BI’s hidden features can drive significant value for any organization.

[fortunerobotic]

Coding Programs and Courses in Dubai

Coding has become an essential ability in the current digital era, leading to creative companies and profitable professional prospects. A variety of coding programs and courses are available in Dubai, a center for innovation and technology, for novices, experts, and computer enthusiasts. Dubai's coding courses offer the ideal foundation for anyone wishing to advance their career in technology, improve their abilities, or enter a new field.

Why Learn Coding in Dubai?

Get World-Class Education: Dubai is home to a number of internationally renowned universities that provide top-notch coding courses.

Increase Career Opportunities: There is a growing need for programmers in sectors including entertainment, healthcare, finance, and logistics.

Become Part of a Successful Tech Community: Dubai's thriving tech scene often hosts meetups, networking events, and hackathons.

Learn in a Multicultural Setting: The city's multicultural populace offers a chance to work together and pick up knowledge from colleagues around the world. Top Coding Courses in Dubai Complete-Stack Development

Take classes that concentrate on languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and Ruby to become proficient in both front-end and back-end technologies. Due to their versatility, full-stack developers are highly sought after.

Machine Learning and Data Science

With specific courses in data analysis, machine learning techniques, and visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI, explore the world of big data and artificial intelligence.

Development of Web Pages

Learn how to create dynamic websites using frameworks like React and Angular and coding languages like PHP and JavaScript.

Development of Mobile Apps

Examine developing apps for iOS and Android with Flutter, React Native, and Swift. For individuals who want to develop cutting-edge mobile applications, this course is perfect.

Hacking Ethics and Cybersecurity

Studying computer languages, ethical hacking methods, and network security concepts can help you get ready for a career in cybersecurity.

Costs and Scholarships The institution and length of the program have an impact on the price of coding classes in Dubai. Financial help and scholarships are provided by numerous institutions, increasing access to education. It's best to inquire about specific prices and payment alternatives with each supplier.

In the modern world, knowing how to code is more than just a talent; it's a means of fostering creativity and addressing problems. Dubai is the best location to begin or continue your coding path because of its state-of-the-art infrastructure and international connectivity. Take the initial step toward a dynamic and rewarding computer career by enrolling in a coding course right now!

To know more, click here.

[jaik-balakumar]

How to Combine Technology and Consulting for Optimal Business Growth

In today’s rapidly changing business environment, combining technology with consulting services can lead to substantial business growth. As the demand for more efficient, data-driven, and cost-effective solutions increases, businesses of all sizes are turning to technology to optimize their operations. For consulting firms, embracing technology isn't just about improving internal operations—it’s also about offering more value to clients, helping them adapt to changing market conditions, and providing insights that drive growth.

Here’s how consulting firms can combine technology with their core services to drive optimal business growth.

1. Leverage Data Analytics for Deeper Insights

One of the most potent ways technology can enhance consulting services is through data analytics. By integrating data analytics tools, consulting firms can offer clients more profound insights into their operations, identify hidden trends, and make more informed decisions.

For example, advanced analytics platforms like Power BI, Tableau, or Google Data Studio can aggregate data from multiple sources to create detailed dashboards, identify inefficiencies, and uncover areas for improvement. As a consultant, you can use these insights to advise clients on everything from optimizing supply chain processes to refining customer targeting strategies.

The ability to analyze vast amounts of data allows your consulting firm to offer more than subjective recommendations. You can back up your advice with hard evidence, helping clients make data-driven decisions that are likely to yield better results.

2. Improve Client Communication and Collaboration with Technology

Effective communication is a cornerstone of any successful consulting project. By integrating collaboration tools into your consulting process, you can improve the flow of information, ensure real-time updates, and foster stronger relationships with clients.

Project management tools like Asana, Monday.com, and Trello can help you manage client tasks, monitor project timelines, and keep everyone on the same page. Similarly, cloud-based document-sharing platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox ensure that all stakeholders have access to the latest reports, contracts, and project documents, making it easier to collaborate remotely.

Beyond project management, communication platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom provide instant messaging, video conferencing, and team collaboration spaces. These tools allow you to engage with clients and their teams in real-time, regardless of location, improving response times and reducing decision-making delays.

By integrating these technologies into your consulting processes, you can enhance both your internal efficiency and your relationship with clients, contributing to smoother project execution and, ultimately, better business outcomes.

3. Automate Repetitive Tasks to Boost Efficiency

Time is one of a consultant’s most valuable resources, and leveraging automation technologies can help you free up more of it. Automation can be incredibly beneficial in several areas within consulting, from data entry and report generation to client follow-ups and billing.

For example, customer relationship management (CRM) systems like Salesforce or HubSpot can automate key client interactions, such as follow-up emails or appointment scheduling. These tools can also track your interactions with clients, providing you with a comprehensive view of their needs and preferences. This not only saves time but ensures that your clients receive timely responses and proactive communication.

In addition, automating administrative tasks, like invoicing or time tracking, can reduce the burden of manual work and help you focus on high-value activities such as strategy development and client consultations. By automating repetitive tasks, you’ll increase your firm’s overall productivity and be able to dedicate more time to critical thinking and client service.

4. Use Cloud-Based Solutions to Scale Operations

Scalability is a significant concern for many consulting firms, mainly as they grow and take on more clients. One of the best ways to scale your operations efficiently is by implementing cloud-based solutions. Cloud technology enables consulting firms to access software, store data, and collaborate with clients without relying on expensive on-site infrastructure.

Cloud platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and AWS provide a range of tools that can help your firm scale operations while maintaining flexibility. For example, with cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks Online, you can track client billing, manage expenses, and generate financial reports in real-time, regardless of where you or your clients are located. Similarly, project management tools that are hosted in the cloud allow your team to work from anywhere, creating a more agile and scalable business model.

By moving to the cloud, you can streamline your operations, reduce costs associated with maintaining physical infrastructure, and ensure that your firm is equipped to scale as demand for your services increases.

5. Develop New Digital Consulting Services

As technology evolves, the consulting industry has also seen the emergence of new service models. Consultants now have the opportunity to provide digital services that were previously unavailable, opening up new revenue streams and offering clients innovative solutions.

One of the most exciting opportunities is the rise of AI-driven consulting services. By incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning into your offerings, you can help clients harness the power of predictive analytics, optimize their operations, and make data-driven decisions. AI can be particularly valuable in areas like financial forecasting, customer segmentation, and process automation.

Additionally, offering digital transformation consulting services can help clients modernize their operations by adopting the latest technologies. This can range from advising on cloud migrations to implementing robotic process automation (RPA) to improve operational efficiency. By offering these cutting-edge services, your consulting firm can position itself as a leader in the evolving digital landscape.

Furthermore, online consulting platforms and webinars allow you to reach a broader audience, offering value to clients across the globe without geographical limitations. This not only diversifies your service offerings but also helps expand your client base.

Combining technology and consulting is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for firms looking to thrive in today’s fast-paced, data-driven world. From leveraging analytics for better decision-making to automating tasks and offering digital transformation services, technology provides the tools needed to enhance service delivery and drive business growth. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements and integrating these solutions into your consulting practice, you can not only improve operational efficiency but also position your firm as a forward-thinking, innovative partner for your clients. The future of consulting lies in technology, and embracing it can unlock untapped potential and create lasting value for your clients and your business.

[vbeyonddigital]

10 Hidden Features in Power BI You Didn’t Know About

Power BI is known for its robust data visualization and reporting capabilities. While many users are familiar with the basic features, some hidden gems can significantly improve your experience and efficiency. Whether you're new to Power BI or an experienced user, these lesser-known features are worth exploring. Here are 10 hidden features in Power BI that can take your reports and dashboards to the next level.

1. Sync Slicers Across Multiple Pages

Slicers are a great way to filter data in Power BI reports, but they often only work on a single page. Did you know you can sync slicers across multiple pages? This feature ensures that filters applied to a slicer on one page automatically reflect on others, making it easier for users to navigate and compare data across different report sections.

2. Drillthrough Filters for Deep Insights

The Drillthrough feature allows you to right-click on any data point in your report and drill down to a detailed report page with additional context. This can be a game-changer when you want to give your users the ability to explore data further without overwhelming the initial report with excessive detail.

3. Custom Themes for Consistent Branding

Creating a custom theme for your reports can help maintain consistent branding throughout your Power BI dashboards. You can define colors, fonts, and other visual styles that match your company’s branding guidelines. This feature is easy to use and can be applied to multiple reports to ensure uniformity.

4. Bookmarks for Interactive Reports

Bookmarks are often underutilized but can be a powerful feature. You can create different "views" of your report using bookmarks, allowing users to switch between predefined filter settings or layouts. This is particularly useful for interactive dashboards where users might need to view different perspectives of the data with a single click.

5. Dynamic Titles Based on Filters

Have you ever needed your report titles to change based on user selections or filters? Power BI allows you to create dynamic titles using DAX. This feature helps make your reports more intuitive, providing users with context-sensitive titles that update automatically when filters are applied.

6. Q&A Feature for Natural Language Queries

Power BI’s Q&A feature lets users ask questions in natural language. By simply typing a question like "What were the sales last quarter?" Power BI generates the appropriate visualizations. It’s an intuitive way for non-technical users to interact with data and get insights without needing to create complex reports.

7. Row-Level Security (RLS)

Row-Level Security (RLS) is a feature that restricts data access for specific users based on their roles. For instance, if you have a large dataset with sensitive information, you can set up security roles that only allow users to view data relevant to their specific region, department, or other criteria. It’s essential for protecting sensitive data in shared reports.

8. Power BI Integration with Microsoft Teams

For teams that use Microsoft Teams, Power BI can be embedded directly into the app. You can share dashboards and reports in chat conversations or within a channel. This integration allows team members to collaborate on data analysis without leaving Teams, improving productivity and workflow.

9. Quick Measures for Advanced Calculations

Creating custom DAX measures can be complex for beginners, but Power BI offers a feature called Quick Measures. This tool provides a list of common calculations, such as running totals or year-over-year comparisons, that can be added with just a few clicks. It's a great time-saver for users who want to perform complex analysis without writing DAX formulas.

10. Power BI Mobile View

With more users accessing reports on their mobile devices, it’s important to ensure that your dashboards are optimized for smaller screens. Power BI offers a mobile view that lets you tailor your reports for mobile consumption. This feature ensures that your reports are easy to navigate and understand, even on a smaller device.

If you want to take full advantage of these hidden features and maximize your use of Power BI, consider working with Power BI consulting experts who can help tailor your reports to meet specific business needs. Expert consultants can offer valuable insights and optimize your data models for better performance and usability.

For businesses looking to transform their data strategy, partnering with Vbeyond Digital can provide the expertise needed to unlock the true potential of Power BI and other analytics tools. Their experience in creating efficient data solutions helps organizations streamline their operations and make more informed decisions.

By exploring these features, you'll not only boost your Power BI skills but also create more impactful and efficient reports that empower users across your organization.

[itechburner]

SAP Analytics Cloud Tutorial: A Beginner’s Guide

If you're a newbie to the field of data analytics or trying to improve your game in business intelligence You've probably been exposed to SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC). It's a powerful software that is designed to help visualization, analysis, and forecasting predictively possible, but even enjoyable (yes actually!). As with all powerful software, the initial steps may seem overwhelming. We're here to help you understand the basics without confusing the user with unnecessary jargon.

So, grab yourself a cup of coffee and let's take a look at this easy-to-follow guide for SAP Analytics Cloud!

What exactly is SAP Analytics Cloud?

Let's begin with the basic. SAP Analytics Cloud can be described as an all-in-one solution that combines analytics for business (BI) and planning and predictive analytics. It was developed in the company SAP using its HANA platform. Imagine it as an online assistant for your data. It helps to collect, analyze and present your data and allows for better decision-making.

One of the most notable advantages is that it's cloud-based. There are no downloads, and there aren't any huge installation requirements--just sign in and begin from any location. It seamlessly integrates with other SAP tools (and even tools that aren't SAP) which makes it an ideal choice for companies who already use SAP's entire ecosystem.

Why You Should Use SAP Analytics Cloud?

If you're just beginning to get into the world of analytics You might be wondering why you shouldn't stick to Excel as well as Google Sheets? The answer is that SAC is a step further with its offerings:

Live Data Analytics: As opposed to spreadsheets that need manually updated data, SAC provides live data integration, ensuring that you're always working with most recent data.

Interactive Dashboards: Design elegant interactive dashboards in only a couple of clicks. No design degree required!

Planning Capabilities: Going beyond the analysis SAC allows you to plan out scenarios, predict outcomes, and assign budgets, all on the same platform.

Predictive Analytics: Make use of AI-driven insight to anticipate trends and make informed decisions.

If your company is heavily dependent on data-driven decisions, SAC is a game-changer.

Setup SAP Analytics Cloud

Now that you're aware of the basics of SAC is and the reasons it's important we can get you to work. Use these instructions to create your account, and then begin exploring.

1. Create an account

Check out on the SAP Analytics Cloud website.

Register for either a trial or a complete account (if your company has bought licenses, consult your administrator for access information).

After registering, sign into your account. When you log in, you'll see SAC's user-friendly home screen.

2. Connect Your Data

SAC isn't a lot of enjoyable without data. Begin by uploading data files (e.g., Excel files) or connecting to live data sources such as SAP S/4HANA Google Drive, or even Salesforce.

Visit the Connections tab.

Choose the kind of data source you would like to include.

Follow the steps to connect to the network.

3. Explore the Interface

SAC interface SAC interface is broken down into three areas principally:

Start Page: This is your home page that highlights recent events and important reports.

Modeler: A tool for creating data models, basically, by organizing your data to be ready for analytics.

Story Builder The Story Builder is where magic occurs. Make use of it to build dashboards, charts and reports.

Creating Your First Dashboard

Are you ready to experience some magic in the data? Let's make a dashboard that can display the sales data.

1. Import Your Data

Visit Modeler. Go to Modeler to upload your Excel file containing the sales data.

Columns in the Map column correspond with dimensions (like date, product or region) or measure (like the Sales amount).

2. Create a story

Visit the Story Builder.

Select Create New Story and then choose Canvas and Responsive Layout (Canvas is ideal for those who are just beginning).

Create tables, charts and other text elements by dropping these onto your canvas.

3. Customize

Try out filters to display data based on the region or by the product's category.

Make use of these styling tools to create a visually appealing dashboard. (Pro tip: Use a basic color scheme for clarity.)

4. Share Your Work

Once you have your dashboard ready and you are happy with it, you can share it to your team by clicking"Share. SAC facilitates collaboration!

A Peek Into Advanced Features

After you've built the first Dashboard, here's some advanced options to consider as you're ready to step up:

Smart Insights: Right-click the data point and you will see AI-generated insights describing the patterns or anomalies.

Predictive Forecasting: Utilize SAC's machine learning capabilities in order to predict trends in sales or sales to come.

Planning Features: Work together on budgets, establish goals, and monitor performance within SAC.

Integration with other Tools: SAC works well with Microsoft Office, enabling you to transfer information out of SAC and import it into PowerPoint as well as Excel.

Tips for Success in SAP Analytics Cloud

Here are some helpful tips to help you make your SAC journey more enjoyable:

Start Small: You don't have to create a perfect dashboard the first day. Begin with simple visualizations and then expand your options slowly.

Use Templates: SAC provides templates that are prebuilt for the common situations. They will save you time and stimulate your creativity.

Leverage the Community: SAP's online community a treasure trove for tutorials, forum discussions and other resources.

Pursue SAP Analytics Cloud Certification: Pursuing SAC Analytics Cloud Certification not only validates your skills but also enhances your confidence and credibility in using SAC effectively. It can open up more career opportunities and ensure you stay up to date with the latest features and best practices.

Wrapping Up

SAP Analytics Cloud is a powerful tool that revolutionizes the way companies manage data. When it comes to creating stunning dashboards or uncovering hidden information using the use of predictive analytics SAC offers something to anyone. Although the system may appear complicated at first, beginning by making simple steps, such as making a simple story -- will build your confidence.

What is it you're doing you Explore SAC Explore the features available, and let your data come to life unlike anything else.