Microsoft is bringing its data tools together into a SaaS service called Microsoft Fabric. Microsoft Fabric is a significant shift in the data platform and will transform how organizations work with data. Microsoft Fabric is built on the foundation of the OneLake storage system that streamlines storage and eliminates data copies. This layer uses the delta-parquet format to help make it open. All the Fabric services then integrate into this system allowing real-time changes in reports, real-time monitoring of data elements, unified security, and Office-like experience for all roles. Fabric also includes native OpenAI support giving Copilot experiences to help write code, generate reports, and more. Microsoft Fabric brings together many of the most common data tools like Azure Data Factory, Synapse, and Power BI. Microsoft Fabric is now in public preview. More information can be found here.
Why This Matters
· This is one of the most significant data announcements from Microsoft in many years and this is expected to transform data operations, data science, analytics, and reporting in organizations.
· Unlike past services that required detailed knowledge of many services, limits, subscription needs, etc., Microsoft Fabric will act more like a SaaS application. This means quicker time to value, less resources needed, and more focus on data vs. infrastructure.
· Copilot in these tools will be transformational in organizations. For example, the Copilot in Power BI allows reports to be built, customized, optimized, and even apply branding in a matter of minutes. This will significantly reduce time spent building reports changing job roles and activities.
