
Setting Up Data Alerts in Power BI
Get notified when your data crosses important thresholds.
Data alerts notify you when metrics exceed thresholds you define, enabling proactive monitoring.
What Are Data Alerts?
Automatic notifications when: - KPIs cross thresholds - Metrics exceed limits - Data changes significantly
Where Alerts Work
Dashboard Tiles Alerts attach to tiles showing: - Cards (single values) - Gauges - KPIs
Requirements - Pinned to dashboard - Numeric data - Regular refresh
Creating Alerts
Step 1: Select Tile On dashboard, click the ellipsis on a card/gauge tile.
Step 2: Manage Alerts Choose "Manage alerts" option.
Step 3: Configure Set up your alert: - Condition (above, below) - Threshold value - Notification frequency
Step 4: Save Alert checks on each data refresh.
Alert Options
Condition Types - Above threshold - Below threshold
Frequency - Once per day max - At most every hour - At most every 24 hours
Notifications - Power BI notification center - Email alerts - Teams integration
Best Practices
- Set meaningful thresholds
- Avoid alert fatigue
- Review and adjust periodically
- Combine with Power Automate for actions
- Document alert purposes
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do data alerts check?
Alerts are checked when the underlying dataset refreshes. The notification frequency setting limits how often you receive alerts (hourly, daily) but checks happen with each refresh.
Can I trigger actions from data alerts?
Yes, use Power Automate to create flows triggered by Power BI alerts. This enables actions like sending Teams messages, creating tickets, updating databases, or calling APIs when thresholds are crossed.