What-If Parameters for Scenario Analysis
Enable dynamic scenario modeling with user-adjustable parameters.
What-if parameters allow users to adjust assumptions and instantly see the impact on calculations, enabling powerful scenario modeling.
What Are What-If Parameters?
What-if parameters create a disconnected table with a range of values and a slicer. Users select a value, and measures reference it for calculations.
Creating What-If Parameters
In Power BI Desktop Modeling > New Parameter > What-If
Configure Settings - Name: Clear description (e.g., "Price Increase %") - Data type: Decimal or Whole Number - Minimum: Starting value - Maximum: Ending value - Increment: Step size - Default: Initial selection
Using in Measures
Reference the parameter value in DAX:
Projected Revenue = [Actual Revenue] * (1 + [Price Increase % Value])
Common Scenarios
Financial Modeling - Price changes - Cost variations - Growth rate assumptions
Sales Forecasting - Conversion rate adjustments - Market size changes - Seasonality factors
Capacity Planning - Headcount scenarios - Utilization targets - Resource allocation
Advanced Techniques
- Multiple parameters for complex scenarios
- Combined with actual vs budget comparisons
- Sensitivity analysis tables
- Break-even calculations
Best Practices
- Use realistic ranges
- Set sensible defaults
- Label clearly with units
- Document assumptions
- Validate calculations at extremes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common use cases for what-if parameters?
Common uses include financial modeling (price changes, cost assumptions), sales forecasting (growth rates, conversion rates), capacity planning (headcount, utilization), and sensitivity analysis for business decisions.
Can I use multiple what-if parameters together?
Yes, you can create multiple parameters and reference them in the same measures. This enables multi-variable scenario modeling, like adjusting both price and volume simultaneously.