PowerBI ODBC vs Rest API

AI generated answer (using internal Slack threads):

****** Disclaimer: This response was generated by an artificial intelligence assistant based on previous conversations from multiple Slack channels, and may contain inaccuracies or mistakes. ****** When comparing PowerBI ODBC vs Rest API, there are several factors to consider: 1. Speed: ODBC is generally faster for large data exports, especially when the queries are simple and without joins. However, some users have reported that ODBC can be slow. 2. Flexibility: Rest API, particularly when used with Restlets, offers more flexibility as you can write your own backend SuiteScript for handling the requests. Restlets are generally preferred because they have security built in. 3. Ease of Use: ODBC allows you to work with certain tools that are already built to use ODBC. However, if speed is essential, you might want to consider using the REST API or Restlets. 4. Integration with PowerBI: PowerBI has a direct connector for ODBC, which can be refreshed up to 24 times a day. This removes the limit of iterating through many lines. Alternatively, you can create a CSV through a script and store it in the file cabinet, making it available without login. PowerBI can pull this as well if you provide the URL, eliminating manual effort. 5. Schema: The ODBC schema differs from the REST schema. The REST schema is supposed to be the same as the SuiteQL schema. ODBC shines in raw speed for simple queries without joins, for example, if you wanted to replicate tables in a data warehouse. In conclusion, the choice between PowerBI ODBC and Rest API depends on your specific needs and constraints. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on factors such as the size of your data, the complexity of your queries, and your specific use case.