Maps in Power BI: From Basic Geography to Production-Ready Spatial Analytics
Intermediate
Maps are one of the most requested, and most misused, visuals in Power BI. Many reports rely on default map visuals without fully understanding geocoding behavior, data modeling requirements, performance implications, or when a map adds real analytical value.
In this session, we’ll move beyond “drop a field on a map” and explore how to design reliable, scalable, and enterprise-ready spatial analytics in Power BI. We’ll cover when to use built-in map visuals versus Azure Maps and Shape Maps, how to model geographic data to avoid common errors, and how to work with custom boundaries such as sales territories, service areas, or districts.
The session focuses on practical patterns and architectural guidance rather than GIS theory, helping you understand not just how to build maps in Power BI—but when and why they should be used.
You’ll leave with:
A clear understanding of Power BI’s mapping options and their tradeoffs
Best practices for preparing and modeling geographic data
Guidance on custom shapes, performance, and governance
Real-world patterns you can apply immediately in production reports
In this session, we’ll move beyond “drop a field on a map” and explore how to design reliable, scalable, and enterprise-ready spatial analytics in Power BI. We’ll cover when to use built-in map visuals versus Azure Maps and Shape Maps, how to model geographic data to avoid common errors, and how to work with custom boundaries such as sales territories, service areas, or districts.
The session focuses on practical patterns and architectural guidance rather than GIS theory, helping you understand not just how to build maps in Power BI—but when and why they should be used.
You’ll leave with:
A clear understanding of Power BI’s mapping options and their tradeoffs
Best practices for preparing and modeling geographic data
Guidance on custom shapes, performance, and governance
Real-world patterns you can apply immediately in production reports
Session prerequisites and resources may be available.
Sign in to access
Speaker
Brendan Daly
Senior Solution Architect @ NRI North America
NRI North America
As a Senior Solution Architect, I help organizations use data effectively, turning it into practical, reliable solutions that drive meaningful business outcomes. My experience covers designing scalable data platforms, integrating AI into real-world applications, and guiding strategic technology deci...
View Full Profile