Building source queries for DirectQuery models

One of the most valuable features of Power BI is its deep support for real-time and streaming datasets--the ability to provide immediate visibility to business processes and events as this data is created or updated. As Power BI Desktop's data modeling engine reflects the latest SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) features, including the enhanced DirectQuery mode for SSAS 2016, it becomes feasible to design DirectQuery models in Power BI Desktop and thus avoid the scalability limitations and scheduled refresh requirements of import-based models.

This recipe walks through the primary steps in designing the data access layer that supports a DirectQuery model in Power BI Desktop. As these models are not cached into memory and dynamically convert the DAX queries from report visualizations to SQL statements, guidance is provided to maintain performance. Additional details, resources, and documentation on DirectQuery's current limitations and comparisons with the default import mode are also included to aid your design decision.