Chapter 56. Using time intelligence functions in PowerPivot

 

Thiago Zavaschi

PowerPivot is composed of two parts: an add-in that enhances the analytical capabilities of Microsoft Excel 2010 (PowerPivot for Excel) and a component for SharePoint 2010 that allows the deployment of workbooks with PowerPivot for SharePoint. The add-on also allows automated data refresh and control over managed workbooks. This chapter’s focus is specifically on the expressions and functions that are used to manipulate data using Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) in Excel.

Introducing Data Analysis Expressions

DAX is an expansion of the native language of formulas from Excel specifically designed to deal with great amounts of relational data while providing ease of use. In the current version, DAX can be used to create new data columns or measures.

Several types of DAX functions are available:

  • Date and time
  • Filter and value
  • Information
  • Logical
  • Math
  • Statistical
  • Text
  • Time intelligence

The focus in this chapter is on the time intelligence functions and how they’re used. Best practices associated with these functions are also discussed.

DAX data types

DAX assumes that the analyzed columns are one of six types:

  • Whole number: Integer
  • Decimal number: Double precision real number
  • Currency: Four decimal places of precision
  • TRUE/FALSE: Boolean
  • Text: String
  • Date: Datetime (starts at March 1, 1900)

Time intelligence functions

Samples

Summary

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