Managing and Scaling Power BI Semantic Models with MCP Server
1h 9mIntermediate2026-07-20
Authors

Helen Wall
Data analytics and business analysis expert
Course details
Explore how to maximize the capabilities of the Power BI MCP Server to efficiently manage and scale semantic models. Start by reviewing how to prepare and interact with the server using VS Code and AI-driven prompts. Learn how to benchmark DAX queries across multiple models to predict and optimize semantical efficiency. Note methods for refactoring queries and measures, and efficiently rename model labels in bulk for consistent updates. Translate entire semantic models into different languages, expanding their reach and applicability for global teams. Generate detailed Markdown documentation, ensuring each element of your model is well-documented and easily scalable. This course is ideal for data analysts and data scientists working in large organizations. Whether you're new to MCP Server or aiming to refine your skills, this course can equip you to transform your workflows and improve documentation practices.
Learning objectives
Prep and interact with the Power BI MCP Server in VS Code.
Benchmark DAX queries between multiple models.
Refactor DAX queries and measures with semantic model parameters.
Analyze model naming convention and bulk rename of labels.
Add model descriptions.
Translate semantic model into another language.
Generate Markdown documentation that includes extensive descriptions and diagrams.
Learning objectives
Prep and interact with the Power BI MCP Server in VS Code.
Benchmark DAX queries between multiple models.
Refactor DAX queries and measures with semantic model parameters.
Analyze model naming convention and bulk rename of labels.
Add model descriptions.
Translate semantic model into another language.
Generate Markdown documentation that includes extensive descriptions and diagrams.
Concepts
Introduction
- Course introduction and overview
MCP Overview
- How the Power BI MCP Server works
- Choosing a model
- Preparing a PBI semantic model for MCP workflows
- Configuring MCP interaction modes for model management
- Benchmark DAX queries against multiple models
Outcomes
- Creating new columns
- Creating new queries in Power Query
- Refactor queries with semantic model parameters
- Analyzing naming conventions in semantic models
- Bulk DAX measure calculations to standardize semantic models
- Refactoring measures at scale using MCP
- Translating semantic models for global teams
- Adding model descriptions to support scale and governance
Documentation
- Generating reusable markdown documentation from semantic models
- Source control
- SKILLS using descriptions and diagrams to improve model understanding
- Adding agent instructions to guide MCP workflows
Final Project - Managing and Documenting a Power BI Semantic Model with MCP
Conclusion
- Next steps