Power BI is a powerful tool for data analysis and visualization. But sometimes, you may need some help to get the most out of it.
That’s where Power BI partners come in. Power BI partners are certified experts who can help you with your Power BI projects, from planning and design to implementation and support.
But how do you find and work with a Power BI partner?
This blog post will guide you through choosing and collaborating with a Power BI-partner that suits your needs and goals. We will also share some tips and best practices to make your Power BI partnership a success.
What are Power BI Partners?
Power bi partners are organizations that have demonstrated their expertise and experience in using power bi to deliver value to their customers. They have earned one or more of the following certifications from Microsoft:
- Power BI Partner
- Power Platform Partner
- Data Analytics Partner
- Data Platform Partner
- Cloud Platform Partner
These certifications indicate that the partner has met the requirements for technical competency, customer satisfaction, and revenue performance. They also give the partner access to exclusive Microsoft resources, tools, and benefits.
Why Work with a Power BI Partner?
Working with a power bi partner can bring you many benefits, such as:
- Saving time and money by leveraging the partner’s expertise and experience
- Getting customized solutions that fit your specific needs and goals
- Enhancing your data quality, security, and governance
- Improving your user adoption and satisfaction
- Scaling your power bi-deployment and performance
- Accessing additional services and support from Microsoft
How to Find a Power BI Partner?
Finding a power bi partner is not difficult but requires research and planning. Here are some steps you can follow:
Define your needs and goals
What are the problems you want to solve or the opportunities you want to seize with power bi? Also, what are the outcomes you expect? What are the scope, budget, and timeline of your project?
Search for potential partners
You can use the Microsoft Partner Center website or the Power BI Partner Showcase to find partners that match your criteria. You can also ask for referrals from your network or Microsoft.
Evaluate the partners
You can review their profiles, portfolios, testimonials, and ratings on their websites or the Microsoft Partner Center website. You can also contact them directly and ask them questions about their experience, approach, methodology, pricing, etc.
Select the partner
You can compare the partners based on their qualifications, proposals, references, etc. You can also conduct interviews or demos with them to better understand their fit and compatibility with you.
Sign the contract
You can negotiate the terms and conditions of the contract with the partner, such as the scope of work, deliverables, milestones, payment terms, etc. You can also establish clear roles and responsibilities for both parties.
How to Work with a Power BI Partner?
Working with a power bi partner is a collaborative process that involves constant communication and feedback. Here are some tips on how to work effectively with a power bi partner:
Communicate your needs and expectations clearly and regularly
Share your vision, goals, challenges, preferences, etc., with the partner. Provide them with relevant data and information. Listen to their suggestions and feedback.
Trust their expertise and experience
Microsoft has certified the partner and proven their ability to deliver value with power bi. They know what works best for your situation and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Be open-minded and flexible
The partner may propose new ideas or approaches that you have not considered before. They may also encounter some challenges or changes along the way. Be willing to explore and adapt to different possibilities and scenarios.
Review and test the deliverables
The partner will provide you with the power bi solution and any other deliverables agreed upon in the contract. You should review and test them to ensure they meet your requirements and expectations. You should also provide feedback and suggestions for improvement if needed.
Celebrate and maintain the relationship
The partner will help you launch and deploy your power bi solution and provide you with training, support, and documentation. You should celebrate the success of your project and acknowledge the partner’s contribution. You should also maintain the relationship with the partner for future collaboration or assistance.
