Easy Tech TutsHow to Use KPI Visual in Power BI - Targets & Trends in One Easily 2026
By Impran M N
The KPI visual is one of the few Power BI visuals built specifically to answer 'are we on track' in a single glance, combining a current value, a trend, and a target. This guide covers setting it up, customizing the metrics, and tracking trends effectively. It's suited for anyone reporting on goals, whether that's sales targets or project milestones.
01Set up the KPI visual
Add the KPI visual to your report and assign the indicator field, the trend axis, and the target value or goal field it should compare against.
02Customize metrics and targets
Adjust the target value, direction (whether higher or lower is better), and formatting so the visual accurately reflects what success looks like for that metric.
03Track trends efficiently
Use the trend line within the KPI visual to show performance over time alongside the current status against target.
04Explore integration with other data sources
Connect the KPI visual's underlying measures to data refreshed from your broader model, so it updates automatically as new performance data comes in.
05Follow best practices for data visualization
Use KPI visuals sparingly for your most important goal-based metrics rather than every number in the report, so they retain their at-a-glance impact.
Frequently asked questions
What three elements does the Power BI KPI visual show?
It typically displays the current value of a metric, a trend line showing its history, and progress relative to a defined target.
Can I set a target that changes over time in the KPI visual?
Yes, the target field can reference a measure or column that varies by period, allowing for dynamic goals rather than a single fixed number.
What does the color coding in the KPI visual mean?
Colors typically indicate whether the current value is meeting, exceeding, or falling short of the defined target, based on the direction you set.
Is the KPI visual different from a regular gauge visual?
Yes, the KPI visual combines a trend line with a target comparison, while a gauge visual shows a single value against a range without historical trend context.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
