If you’ve been paddling around in the world of data lakes, you probably already caught my previous post on Data Lake vs OneLake vs Lakehouse for D365. Now, let’s wade deeper (pun intended) into how Microsoft Fabric Link and Azure Synapse Link stack up, especially for those of us navigating the data seas in Dynamics 365 (D365).
Simplify Data Integration with Fabric Link
Fabric Link is built for easy integration, allowing D365 data to flow seamlessly into Microsoft OneLake aka Fabric’s built-in lakehouse. This integration is a dream for admins and data engineers who want insights without heavy data prep work, thanks to Fabric Link’s no-ETL approach. Here’s what that means:
With Fabric Link, you can connect Dynamics 365 data directly to OneLake, where it’s automatically synced in delta or parquet formats. Unlike traditional setups that require time-intensive ETL processes, Fabric Link continuously updates data in near real-time. So, no need to manually transfer, cleanse, or reformat data—your D365 insights are ready for action the moment you need them. This simplifies workflows, reduces errors, and lets you focus on analysis instead of data wrangling
Linking all D365 data to Fabric Link? Say whaaaaaaa?
The Microsoft Fabric Link for Dynamics 365, as described in the Power Platform 2023 Wave 2 release plan, empowers users to connect all Dynamics 365 data directly to Microsoft Fabric’s OneLake. This feature eliminates the need for traditional ETL processes, allowing data to remain in Dataverse and be readily accessible through OneLake’s lakehouse architecture, which supports direct shortcuts to data from Dynamics 365 Finance, Supply Chain, and other modules.
With Fabric Link, data refresh is managed automatically (so we're told), syncing in delta/parquet formats, which enhances performance and reduces storage needs. Once data is linked, users can generate real-time insights in Power BI or Fabric’s native SQL environments without copying or transforming data. This integration opens possibilities for business intelligence, reporting, and predictive analytics across Dynamics 365 data while maintaining data security and governance standards.
For more details on configuring and using Fabric Link in Dynamics 365, Microsoft wrote more here.
Harness Real-Time Power with Synapse Link
On the other side, Azure Synapse Link is a robust tool that empowers users to perform real-time analytics on operational data stored in various D365 modules or Azure SQL databases. Synapse Link’s power comes from its integration with Azure Synapse Analytics, where it enables near-instant replication of data from D365 applications or other data sources into dedicated SQL pools or Spark environments within Synapse.
Synapse Link is optimal if you need real-time insights with complex transformations—such as forecasting or monitoring trends on live data. For example, supply chain forecasting or customer insights in sales rely on Synapse Link’s fast, continuous data updates. Although it requires some setup to define sources and tables, Synapse Link provides more analytical depth for users who need advanced capabilities, often found in larger D365 environments.
When Should You Use Fabric Link vs. Synapse Link?
Both links have their strengths, but here’s a breakdown of where each shines:
Fabric Link: Ideal for users looking to streamline D365 data integration without data engineering complexities. It’s an ETL-free solution where D365 data flows effortlessly into OneLake for Power BI and Fabric-based reporting.
Synapse Link: Better suited for high-frequency, high-volume real-time analysis. If you’re running an operation with significant data demands—like real-time inventory tracking or global analytics—Synapse Link’s advanced capabilities will be a fit.
Making the Most of Your Lake Solution
While Fabric Link offers simplicity and ease, Synapse Link brings scalability and in-depth analytics. Both can fit into a D365 landscape, but understanding your analytics needs can help guide you to the right choice.
Dad Joke of the Day
What do you call it when a group of apes starts a company? Monkey business.
Remember, whether you’re in calm waters or rough seas (call back to the sailor joke from before), there’s a solution here for everyone.
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