A metric is a measurable value used to track performance, activity or progress.
Metric
A metric is a measurable value used to track performance, activity or progress in a report.
Quick facts about metrics
Measurable value
A metric gives users a number they can monitor, compare or analyze over time.
Used in reporting
Metrics are commonly shown in dashboards, scorecards, tables and Power BI reports.
Needs definition
A metric should have a clear definition so users understand what is included and how it is calculated.
Supports decisions
Metrics help teams see what is happening, where performance changes and which areas need attention.
How metrics work
Metrics turn business activity into values that can be tracked in a report. A metric may show a total, average, percentage, count or rate depending on what the team needs to measure.
Common metric examples include:
- Revenue
- Churn rate
- Number of active users
- Average response time
A metric becomes more useful when it has context. Users need to know the time period, calculation logic, data source and whether the value should be compared with a target or previous result.
Why metrics matter in Power BI reporting
Metrics matter because they are often the main reason people open a report. They help users understand performance, spot changes and compare results across teams, customers or time periods.
In Power BI, metrics can appear in cards, charts, tables and dashboards. Skald BI helps teams share finished Power BI reports through a secure branded portal, so customers, partners and internal users can access the metrics that matter to them in a controlled experience.
Use cases
See how different types of organisations use Skald BI to share Power BI securely with employees, customers and partners.
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Frequently asked questions
What is an example of a metric?
Examples include revenue, conversion rate, churn rate, active users, margin and average response time.
Why do metrics need clear definitions?
Clear definitions help users understand how a metric is calculated and avoid confusion when reports are shared across teams or audiences.
Is Power Query the same as Power BI?
No. Power Query is used for data preparation. Power BI is the broader reporting and analytics platform where reports, models and dashboards are created.
How do metrics relate to Skald BI?