Reports often require that in addition to the usual review of the sales we create running total, i.e. to track cumulative growth of sales from beginning of the month, quarter or year. For this purpose we use the Time Intelligence functions DATESMTD, DATESQTD and DATESYTD by which we can track cumulative sales growth since the beginning of the given period. If you want to find out more please read the recipe that follows…
Time Intelligence functions are often used for reviewing implementation of the goals at the same time last year. In what follows we will mention a few of DAX functions that cover this area. First, there is a function SAMEPERIODLASTYEAR which should monitor business results in the same period last year. And then there are functions DATEADD and PARALLELPERIOD by which we can monitor the achievement of objectives in the previous or next period (month, quarter, or year) in relation to the current data.
If we want to carry out calculations in previous or the next period in relation to the current date, should use “PREVIOUS” and “NEXT” Time Intelligence function. They allow aggregation of data, usually the column that contains the quantity or amount of sales, compared to the previous year, quarter, month or day, as well as in relation to the next year, quarter, month or day. In the example below you will see how to utilize this class of DAX functions.
Formula in calculated column will be evaluated using the row context, which means that all columns that are referenced give results in a row in which the formula is located. Evaluation continues for each subsequent row, so that by the end of the table. Since calculating final sum takes place iteratively we can hardly see what happened in the previous row as you would do in traditional Excel formulas. Here come into play EARLIER and EARLIEST functions.
Similar as you encountered working with Pivot tables, PowerPivot reports also enable creation of interactive charts. Unlike those made by traditional Pivot charts they can be independent, which means you do not have to be directly connected to the pivot table; you can use data already contained in the Model. Together with slicers and timeline filters they can be used as a tool for creating rich dashboards