A snapshot is a captured view of data from a specific point in time.
Snapshot
A snapshot is a saved view of data from a specific point in time. It captures how the data looked at that moment, even if the source data changes later.
Quick facts about snapshots
Point in time
A snapshot captures data as it looked at a certain moment, rather than continuously changing with live updates.
Useful for comparison
Snapshots help teams compare past and current data, such as month end results or historic performance.
Supports reporting history
Snapshots can preserve values that may later change in source systems or live reports.
Different from live data
Live data updates as the source changes, while a snapshot keeps the captured version from a specific time.
How snapshots work
Snapshots are used when teams need a fixed version of data. Instead of always showing the latest value, a snapshot stores or represents what the data looked like at a certain time. Common examples of snapshots include:
- Month end revenue
- Daily inventory levels
- Customer count at quarter end
- Project status at a reporting date
This makes snapshots useful for reporting that depends on history. If source data keeps changing, a snapshot can help users understand what was true when a report was created or when a period closed.
Why snapshots matter in BI reporting
Snapshots matter because some business questions depend on timing. A team may need to know what pipeline value looked like at the end of last month, not what it looks like today.
In Power BI, snapshots can help preserve historic reporting views and support comparisons over time. Skald BI helps teams share finished Power BI reports through a secure branded portal, so customers, partners and internal users can access the right reporting views 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 snapshot?
An example is month end revenue saved as it looked on the final day of the month.
Snapshots are useful because they help preserve historic values, support comparisons and reduce confusion when source data changes later.
Is a snapshot the same as live data?
No. Live data changes as the source changes. A snapshot keeps the data as it looked at a certain moment.
How do snapshots relate to Skald BI?