What is a dataflow in Power BI?

A dataflow in Power BI is defined as a collection of data transformation steps used to prepare data for multiple datasets or reports. This concept is central to how data preparation and modeling are handled within Power BI. Dataflows enable users to extract, transform, and load (ETL) data from various sources into a data lake, which can then be reused across multiple reports or models.

This functionality promotes reusability and standardization, allowing analysts to ensure that the same set of data transformations are consistently applied to the same underlying data, eliminating errors and reducing redundancy in multiple reports. By utilizing dataflows, data analysts can create a single source of truth, making it easier for teams to collaborate and maintain data integrity across the organization.

The other options do not accurately represent the purpose of dataflows. While visual representations of data, real-time data processing, and direct database connections are vital features in Power BI, they pertain to other functionalities or aspects of the platform rather than the specific role of dataflows in data preparation and transformation.