Tableau to Power BI migration

Migrating from Tableau to Power BI is a bit complex due to the differences in their underlying architectures, APIs, and file formats. While there’s no official one-click migration tool from Tableau to Power BI, you can automate parts of the process using Python, REST APIs, and third-party tools.


Here’s a breakdown of what you can do and how to approach building a migration script using Python:





Step 1: Extract Metadata from Tableau



Use the Tableau REST API and Metadata API (GraphQL) to extract workbooks, datasources, and visualization metadata.



Python Example (Tableau Metadata API):






Use Python libraries like gql or requests to send this GraphQL query.





Step 2: Parse and Convert the Metadata



Translate the Tableau metadata into something Power BI understands. This requires custom mapping logic:



  • Tableau Viz → Power BI Visual
  • Tableau Filters → Power BI Slicers
  • Tableau Data Sources → Power BI Dataflows or imported datasets



You can write this logic using pandas or custom JSON translators.





Step 3: Use Power BI REST API to Create Equivalent Artifacts



Power BI’s REST API supports operations like:



  • Creating workspaces
  • Uploading PBIX files
  • Updating datasets
  • Managing reports



However, you cannot programmatically create detailed visuals via REST API alone — that requires Power BI Desktop and the PBIX format.


But you can prepare data and models using:



  • Power BI XMLA endpoint
  • Tabular Editor (for datasets)
  • Power BI Desktop Automation using PowerShell/Python & PBIX Templates






Alternative/Third-party Tooling



Some tools that can help in this migration:



  • Power BI XMLA/Tabular Editor: To create models programmatically.
  • Tableau to Power BI Migration Tool by MAQ Software (limited features).
  • ZappySys ODBC Drivers / ETL tools to extract Tableau data and push to Power BI.
  • Alteryx or KNIME: As middle-layer ETL tools.






Caution




  • Visuals cannot be directly migrated — you’ll need to recreate them.
  • Some calculations (e.g., LOD in Tableau) must be translated manually into DAX.
  • Tableau dashboards (layouts, interactivity) won’t be 1:1 with Power BI.






Want a Starter Script?



If you’re interested, I can generate a Python starter script that:



  • Authenticates with Tableau
  • Extracts workbook metadata
  • Prepares a mapping JSON for Power BI



Let me know how automated you want it (full flow vs metadata only).


From Blogger iPhone client


MAQ Software offers a Tableau to Power BI migration tool called MigrateFAST, which aims to simplify and accelerate the process of transitioning from Tableau to Power BI. This tool, powered by AI, is designed to help businesses migrate large volumes of reports, potentially saving time and resources. 


Key Features and Benefits: 

  • AI-Powered Migration:
  • MigrateFAST utilizes artificial intelligence to automate and expedite the migration process. 
  • Large-Scale Migration:
  • The tool is designed to handle large-scale migrations of reports from Tableau to Power BI. 
  • Time and Cost Savings:
  • By automating the migration, MigrateFAST can reduce the time and resources required, potentially leading to cost savings. 
  • Optimized Conversion:
  • The tool focuses on ensuring high-quality and accurate report conversion during the migration process. 
  • Data Discovery and Exploration:
  • MigrateFAST can help streamline the data discovery and exploration process, allowing for more intuitive and accessible data insights. 
  • 6-Week Implementation:
  • MAQ Software claims to offer a 6-week implementation plan for the migration process. 
  • Expert Support:
  • MAQ Software provides expert support and guidance throughout the migration process. 
  • Other Services:
  • MAQ Software also offers services like performance analysis, report optimization, and adoption training to support the overall migration and adoption of Power BI. 

How MigrateFAST Works: 

MigrateFAST, according to MAQ Software, uses AI to analyze and convert Tableau workbooks (.twbx) to Power BI, simplifying the migration process. It can automate tasks, reduce manual effort, and improve the accuracy of the conversion, ultimately leading to a smoother transition to Power BI. 


For a more detailed understanding of MAQ Software's services and the MigrateFAST tool, it is recommended to visit their website