Business Problem
- Obsolete Technology: The university relied on outdated BI tools like Cognos and Tableau, which limited functionality, scalability, and user satisfaction.
- Complex Visuals & Calculations: Migrating to Power BI posed challenges as certain legacy visuals, calculations, and data validation processes couldn't be directly replicated.
- Data Integration Issues: Integrating data from multiple sources into Power BI was complicated, especially with the complex data structures in legacy systems.
Methodology
- Assessment & Planning: Analyzed 500+ existing dashboards to identify key features and functionality needed in Power BI.
- Custom Calculations: Recreated legacy visuals and calculations using Power BI’s DAX and custom visuals, addressing gaps in data validation.
- Incremental Migration: Migrated dashboards in phases, allowing users to adapt and provide feedback.
- Training & Support: Provided training to ensure users could leverage Power BI’s interactive features effectively.
Technology
- Legacy BI Tools: Cognos, Tableau
- Modern BI Platform: Power BI
- Data Sources: Academic and administrative databases, spreadsheets, cloud-based sources.
Considerations
- Change Management: Addressed user resistance with a phased migration approach and continuous feedback.
- Data Quality Ensured accurate data transfer and validation through custom DAX calculations.
- Scalability: Designed the Power BI solution to scale with future growth and increasing data needs.
Business Impact:
- Enhanced Decision-Making: Increased data-driven decisions by 30%, empowering users with better insights.
- Reduced Costs: Achieved a 20% reduction in operational costs by replacing legacy systems with a more cost-effective platform.
- Fostered Innovation: The modern BI environment encouraged greater exploration of data, promoting a culture of innovation.
Results
- Faster Performance: Reduced report generation time by 50%, with improved speed and responsiveness in Power BI.
- Successful Dashboard Migration: Migrated 500+ dashboards, replicating critical functionality and adding new features to enhance insights.
- Streamlined Data Integration: Successfully integrated data from multiple sources, providing real-time insights.