Build an Interactive Power BI Dashboard with SQL Server and AdventureWorks: Step-by-Step Tutorial

Unlock the full potential of your data with this step-by-step tutorial on building a Power BI dashboard using SQL Server and the AdventureWorks database. Learn how to connect to SQL Server, import AdventureWorks data, and create powerful, interactive visuals in Power BI. Perfect for data analysts, BI professionals, and beginners seeking to master data modeling and reporting.

Data used: AdventureWorks database What you’ll learn:

• Connecting Power BI to SQL Server
• Importing and transforming AdventureWorks data
• Creating effective data models
• Designing dashboards with advanced visuals

Why AdventureWorks?

The Perfect Learning Database

• Microsoft’s Official Sample DB
• Real-world retail scenario (Sales, HR, Production)
• Rich schema: 70+ tables, relationships, hierarchies
• Available in SQL Server 2016+ (OLTP & DW versions)

Use Case: Analyze sales performance, customer trends, product profitability

Prerequisites

Item	Details
Software	– SQL Server (Express or Developer) – SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) – Power BI Desktop (Latest)
Database	AdventureWorks2019 (Download: GitHub Microsoft)
Skills	Basic SQL, DAX (we’ll cover essentials)