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The Definitive Guide to DAX: Business intelligence for Microsoft Power BI, SQL Server Analysis Services, and Excel is a comprehensive guide to mastering DAX (Data Analysis Expressions), Microsoft’s formula language for Power BI, Analysis Services, and Excel. The guide, co-authored by Marco Russo, a seasoned business intelligence consultant and mentor, is a deep dive into the robust capabilities of DAX, presenting a perfect balance of theory and practical application.
Marco Russo brings to bear his vast experience working on Analysis Services since its inception in 1998. He is recognized as a Microsoft MVP and an SSAS Maestro, the highest level of certification on Microsoft Analysis Services, a testament to his credibility and expertise in the field.
This book, which can be purchased here, serves as an essential resource for both beginners and seasoned professionals in the business intelligence domain. It introduces core DAX concepts such as calculated columns, measures, and calculation groups. Russo ensures that readers grasp these concepts by illustrating them with relevant examples, demonstrating how to perform powerful data analysis with DAX for Power BI, SQL Server, and Excel.
The book methodically progresses from basic to advanced table functions, gradually introducing readers to evaluation contexts, CALCULATE and CALCULATETABLE functions, and time-based calculations. It also delves into the syntax of variables (VAR) to guide readers on writing more readable and maintainable code, an invaluable skill in the business intelligence landscape.
The Definitive Guide to DAX does not shy away from complex topics. It presents diverse and unusual relationships in DAX, including many-to-many relationships and bidirectional filters, enriching the reader’s understanding of DAX’s versatility. Russo also shares advanced optimization techniques and guides on improving performance in aggregations and achieving better compression in data models. The book is practically oriented, providing advice on measuring DAX query performance with DAX Studio and optimizing DAX.
Readers have found this guide to be a valuable resource in their professional development. It has been hailed as a ‘must-read’ for anyone seeking to improve in the business intelligence developer/analyst role. The book provides a thorough exploration of the DAX engine, giving an in-depth look into the mechanisms and underlying processes necessary for data models and reports to work efficiently. It also serves as a handy reference, even after an initial thorough read, to revisit complex concepts and techniques.
Despite its strengths, some readers reported issues with the digital version of the book, citing missing images related to code, graphs, and other illustrative content. This feedback suggests that a physical copy, which can be ordered here, might provide a more comprehensive reading experience.
In conclusion, The Definitive Guide to DAX by Marco Russo is a comprehensive, valuable, and accessible guide for anyone looking to master DAX for business intelligence. While the depth and breadth of the material can be initially overwhelming, patient readers will find the investment of time and effort well rewarded. As Russo’s book deftly demystifies DAX, readers are equipped with the tools and knowledge to leverage DAX’s full capabilities, propelling them towards greater proficiency in their field. If this sounds like the resource you need, don’t hesitate to pick up your copy here.