Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our products and services.
Can I use these solutions starters/templates commercially in my organisation?
Yes, templates are licensed for individual use within your organisation. You can adapt them for your own projects and learning. If your colleagues or friends would benefit, please invite them to visit our website so they can download their own latest copy.
Do I need coding skills to use these Power BI solution starters/templates?
No coding required! Our solution starters/templates are designed for beginner to intermediate Power BI users. Power Query steps are clearly documented.
Do I need Power BI Pro to use these the report solutions starters/templates?
No, you can use the free version of Power BI Desktop to open and customise our templates.
Do I need the sample data to use your Power BI Solution Starters?
No. You can use your own Excel, SharePoint, OData or Power BI supported data sources with our Solution Starters. The sample data is simply an optional resource for people who want to explore the reports, learn Power BI, test ideas or train without using live project information.
How often are the solutions starters/templates and sample data updated?
All starters/templates and sample data are updated quarterly to reflect the latest Power BI Desktop features and improvements.
What file formats do Freedom Solutions' Solution Starters/Templates use?
Our templates are provided as Power BI Desktop (.pbix) files. Sample data is provided in Excel (.xlsx) format.
What makes the sample data different from free examples online
Most free datasets are either too simple, too generic or not structured in a way that supports real project, portfolio and resource demand vs capacity reporting. Many realistic datasets require enterprise systems, internal access or contain sensitive information.
Our Excel sample data is clean and ready to use. It is structured like real project and resource data and designed specifically for Power BI reporting.
This makes it far more practical than typical “dummy data” found online.
What's the difference between the Basic (free) and Extended versions?
The Extended version includes more features, working sample data integration, and documented Power Query transformations. The Basic version is a conceptual guide for learning.
Why do you charge for the sample data?
Creating realistic project and resource sample data in Excel takes time and expertise. Project data is highly time‑sensitive, and the dates need to move regularly to stay meaningful. We update our Excel sample data quarterly so it continues to reflect real project cycles, timelines and reporting scenarios. This ongoing work is why the sample data is offered as a low‑cost paid product.