Power BI Tables and Matrix Visuals: The Next Step

Let’s face it: Many Power BI reports include at least one table or matrix visual, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While they are familiar, flexible, and likely the easiest way for report creators to display detailed data, they often represent a lack of trust in the data, which leads to the wish to see all the details. This means they’re just Excel tables in disguise: packed with data but doing little to support decision-making.

This session is about taking tables and matrix visuals to the next step. We will look at transforming these visuals into something that works with your users rather than against them. Think cleaner layouts, smarter use of space, and formatting that highlights what matters without needing to scroll through hundreds of rows. You will see examples of how to upgrade a basic table or matrix visual into something that adds value for the end user and at the same time increases trust in the report data itself. From subtle design tweaks to DAX tricks for dynamic elements, this session aims to provide you with ideas you can implement right away.

We will also address typical challenges, such as how to respond when the end-user requests “just the raw data” or “a copy of my Excel report in Power BI” and determining when it may be more effective to skip the matrix entirely.

What we’ll cover:
• Conditional formatting that adds meaning, not just color.
• Layout tricks to reduce clutter and improve usability.
• DAX techniques for showing the right context at the right time.
• How to avoid endless scrolling (and what to do instead)?
• When not to use a table or matrix and what are the better options?

This session is intended for report creators ready to move beyond basic matrix and table visuals and create visuals that improve clarity, user engagement, and action.

Key Learning Objectives:
• Learn to use formatting, layout, and DAX to support better decisions.
• Discover small tweaks that make a big difference in usability.
• Walk away with practical ideas you can apply in your next report.

Learn how to redesign tables and matrix visuals so they highlight what matters. Use formatting, layout and DAX to improve clarity and usability. Know when to use a table, when to avoid it, and which alternatives work better.