⚡How to Build a Correlation Matrix in Power BI Using Only DAX

A hands-on guide to calculating correlations, formatting visuals, and adding interactivity — no external tools needed.

By Isabelle Bittar for KI Data Science

🎁PBIX available for download at the end of this article!

Introduction

Recently, I wrote a few articles on how you can leverage Python in Power Query to access more advanced analytic methods, such as forecasting or anomaly detection. But DAX alone can also take your analysis much further than you might expect — for example, by building a fully dynamic correlation matrix.

I recently worked on a tactical HR dashboard designed to help HR advisors identify links and relationships between key indicators such as Engagement, Performance, and Overtime hours. One of the most valuable visuals we developed was a correlation matrix. I figured out a way to build it 100% in DAX, making it fully interactive: users could apply filters and slicers to customize the view, and even explore details with an interactive tooltip that displayed additional context about the observations.

This visual proved to be a game-changer for advisors, helping them understand how metrics interact and providing clear, data-backed recommendations for leadership. For instance…