22-25 April 2026

Getting Started with the TMDL View

Proposed session for SQLBits 2026

TL; DR

This session will introduce TMDL View in Power BI Desktop, explaining how it enables semantic modelling through code instead of the traditional UI without eternal tools support.

Session Details

Power BI modelling has traditionally relied on graphical interfaces, but with the introduction of Tabular Model Definition Language (TMDL), developers now have a powerful scripting alternative. This session will introduce TMDL View in Power BI Desktop, explaining how it enables semantic modelling through code instead of the traditional UI without eternal tools support.

We will cover:
- How to enable and use TMDL View in Power BI Desktop
- Scripting and modifying semantic model objects such as tables, measures, and relationships
- Enhancing efficiency with code-based modelling, bulk edits, and reusability

This session is perfect for those new to TMDL or looking for a streamlined way to manage Power BI models.

3 things you'll get out of this session

- How to enable and use TMDL View in Power BI Desktop - Scripting and modifying semantic model objects such as tables, measures, and relationships - Enhancing efficiency with code-based modelling, bulk edits, and reusability