Okay, so I'm trying to figure out how PowerBI can be used as a core enabler for my data product. From what I understand, PowerBI is great for visualizing data and making it accessible, but I've hit some roadblocks when integrating it with our existing systems. First off, sharing in PowerBI requires everyone to be on the same tier. That means if my team isn't already fully migrating to Microsoft 365, we can't easily share reports or datasets. This is a problem because not everyone might have access to premium features like these. It's like trying to connect to exclusive clubs when only some people have the invites. Then there's the API part. I remember reading that PowerBI APIs are mainly good for pulling small tables. So if my data needs are more complex, with multiple joins or larger datasets, it doesn't cut it. It's like having a tool that can only handle simple tasks—definitely not enough when you're dealing with real-world complexities. Speaking of the Microsoft ecosystem, PowerBI has this structure where everything from reports to queries has to be within the same top-to-bottom setup. If we ever want to move beyond that, it seems like a total fail. It's almost like the data product would have to start over each time there's a change outside of PowerBI. And here's another thing—its great for visualization but at the expense of performance and versioning outside of Microsoft. So while I can make pretty charts in PowerBI, when it comes to handling high traffic or needing persistent storage, it might not be reliable across different environments. It's like choosing style over substance sometimes. From my experience using PowerBI, unless there's no other choice—like if we're stuck in the Microsoft ecosystem—using it as a core enabler isn't working out well. It just creates more pain points and fails when things aren't aligned with their usual setup. # Embracing PowerBI: A Core Enabler for Data Products In my quest to leverage PowerBI as the backbone of our data product, I've encountered several challenges that have shaped my perspective on its effectiveness. Firstly, the sharing requirements mandate uniformity across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. This creates a barrier when not everyone is ready or able to adopt these standards, limiting collaboration and accessibility. Secondly, PowerBI APIs are optimized for simplicity, excelling in small datasets but faltering with complex queries involving joins or large volumes of data. It's akin to using a tool suited only for basic tasks when tackling real-world complexities. Thirdly, PowerBI enforces an integrated approach within its ecosystem, necessitating a complete restructure whenever stepping outside. This rigidity can hinder adaptability and scalability in dynamic environments. Lastly, while excelling in visualization, PowerBI sacrifices performance and versioning flexibility outside its ecosystem. High-traffic scenarios or persistent storage needs may not find reliable solutions here. Reflecting on my experience, unless there's no alternative—specifically within the Microsoft ecosystem—it seems ineffective as a core enabler. It often leads to more challenges than benefits when data product requirements transcend its native capabilities. In summary, while PowerBI offers significant strengths in visualization and accessibility, it falls short when expecting to serve as an all-encompassing solution outside of its ecosystem boundaries.