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Where Did the Power BI Button Go? Using SharePoint Lists with Power BI Going Forward

19 January, 2026

Microsoft has removed the Power BI option from the Integrate menu in SharePoint lists. This article explains what changed, what it means for existing reports, and how you can continue using your SharePoint lists as a data source using Power BI Desktop or Power BI on the web.

Power BI is no longer available from the Integrate menu in SharePoint lists

What changed

You may have previously used Integrate → Power BI in a SharePoint list to quickly turn your list into charts or reports.

This option is no longer available. Microsoft has removed this feature, which means SharePoint lists can no longer send data directly to Power BI from within the list itself.

Good to know

Your SharePoint list data is not affected. Only the shortcut to Power BI has been removed.

What this means

Reports that were previously created using this feature may no longer refresh or behave as expected and may need to be rebuilt using one of the options below.

How to continue using your SharePoint list as a data source

You can still use SharePoint lists with Power BI. You just need to start from Power BI instead of SharePoint.

At KAUST, there are two supported ways to do this, depending on how you work and what you need.

Before you begin

You will need permission to access the SharePoint list you want to report on.

Option 1: Use Power BI Desktop (Windows)

Power BI Desktop is a Windows application. You can use it in any of the following ways:

  • On a Windows device
  • On a KAUST-provided macOS device using KAUST 2X (Remote Application)
  • On a personal macOS device (BYOD) by installing Parallels, then signing in to KAUST 2X

How this works

KAUST 2X provides a Windows environment that allows macOS users to run Windows-only applications such as Power BI Desktop.

The KAUST 2X software page includes screenshots and the exact details needed to sign in: KAUST 2X (Remote Application).

How to connect your SharePoint list using Power BI Desktop

  1. Open Power BI Desktop (on Windows or via KAUST 2X)
  2. Select Get data
  3. Choose SharePoint Online list
  4. Enter the URL of your SharePoint site (not the list URL)
  5. Sign in with your KAUST credentials if prompted
  6. Select the list you want to use
  7. Load the data and build your report

Planning to share this widely?

For reports intended for regular use or broader sharing, IT can help review the approach to ensure it scales well.

Option 2: Use Power BI on the web (browser-based)

Power BI is also available entirely in your browser and does not require Windows, KAUST 2X, or Parallels.

Power BI on the web is available at app.powerbi.com.

Good option if you prefer

This works on any device with a supported web browser and requires no installation.

How to connect your SharePoint list using Power BI on the web

  1. Go to Power BI on the web
  2. Select Create or Get data
  3. Choose SharePoint Online list as the data source
  4. Enter the URL of your SharePoint site
  5. Sign in with your KAUST credentials if prompted
  6. Select the list you want to use
  7. Build your report directly in the browser

Keep in mind

Power BI on the web is best for simpler reporting. More advanced reporting may require Power BI Desktop.

Choosing between Power BI Desktop and Power BI on the web

Both options work with SharePoint lists, but they are better suited for different types of reporting.

Comparison overview

Area Power BI Desktop
Windows (native or via 2X/Parallels) 		Power BI on the web
Browser-based
Best forOngoing, structured, or departmental reportsQuick insights and simple reports
SetupRequires Windows (native or via KAUST 2X / Parallels)No installation, browser only
Ease of useMore steps, more controlFast and straightforward
Data preparationStrong support for cleaning and shaping dataLimited data preparation
Report designFull control over layouts and formattingBasic design and visuals
Multiple data sourcesWell suited for combining dataBest for a single data source
Long-term reporting Recommended Not ideal for complex or growing reports
New to Power BISteeper learning curveEasier place to start

When to choose Power BI Desktop

Choose Power BI Desktop if you:

  • Are creating reports that will be used regularly
  • Need to clean up, reshape, or organize list data
  • Want more flexibility in charts, layouts, and formatting
  • Plan to combine multiple lists or data sources
  • Are sharing reports with leadership or larger groups

Closest replacement

If you previously relied on Integrate → Power BI in SharePoint, Power BI Desktop is the closest replacement.

When to choose Power BI on the web

Choose Power BI on the web if you:

  • Want to create something quickly
  • Are working on a simple or short-term report
  • Only need basic visuals and filtering
  • Prefer working entirely in your browser
  • Are new to Power BI and want a lighter starting point

You can switch later

It is common to start in the web version and move to Power BI Desktop later if your reporting needs grow.

For simpler needs

If your goal is basic tracking or visibility, you may not need Power BI at all.

Alternative option

SharePoint lists still support:

  • Filters and grouped views
  • Sorting and conditional formatting
  • Status and progress indicators

Need help?

If you are unsure which option is right for you, or if this change affects an existing report, IT can help guide you on the best next step.

  • Log a ticket with VITA for guidance or support
  • Call the IT Service Desk during working hours
  • Visit the IT Walk-In Support Desk in Building 14

Our team can help you decide whether Power BI Desktop or Power BI on the web is the better fit for your use case.