Insert data input columns

Plan allows you to insert calculated rows, columns, and measures directly in table or matrix reports without writing DAX. These can be formatted, rearranged, and used for further analysis.

The built-in formula engine supports a wide range of functions and provides features such as autocomplete, syntax help, and multi-line editing to simplify formula creation.

In this article, you learn how to insert and configure data input columns and measures.

Data input types

Plan provides multiple options to manually enter data in your Microsoft Fabric report. You can enter data in single or multiple cells, and format it as needed based on your reporting requirements.

The following table lists the available data input types:

Input type	Description
Number	Double-click and start typing values in directly into a cell
Text	Enter text with multi-line support and word wrap
Dropdown	Use the available presets or create your own list of values; supports both single-select and multi-select
Date	Add a date from the calendar/date picker
Checkbox	Used in case of binary selections
Person	Input users from your organization

Create a data input column

To add a data input column to your report:

1. Go to Planning > Insert Column.

2. Select the required data input column type.

1. Configure the column properties and select Create.

Configure data input column properties

You can configure the following properties while creating a data input column:

• Insert As: Choose how the column is added:

  • Visual measure - Inserts the input column across each category when a column hierarchy exists.

  • Visual column - Inserts a single column regardless of hierarchy.

• Input type: Change the type of data input column before creating it.

  

  Note

  The Insert as and Input type settings cannot be changed after the column or measure is created.

• Default value: Specifies the value to display in empty cells. Depending on the input type, you can use a Static value, Dimension, or Measure. If the underlying measure or formula changes, the default value is updated accordingly.

  Note

  • For visual columns, you can set default values only using Static values.

  • The Default value option isn't available for Long Text, Multi Select, or Person input types.

• Entry in total and subtotal rows: Allows users to enter values in total and subtotal rows. This option is enabled by default. Clear Allow entry on Total/Subtotals to prevent entries in these rows.

  Note

  The Allow entry on Totals/Subtotals option is available for all input types except Number.

  
• On Change Formula: Defines the action to perform when a value in the column changes. You can specify a formula or script that is automatically executed whenever the value is updated. Use this option to trigger calculations, update related values, or perform other actions based on the change.

  Note

  The On Change Formula option is available for all input types except Long Text.

• Allow input: Control when users can enter data:

  • In both read and edit modes (default).

  

  • Only in edit mode.

  

  • Based on a formula where input is allowed only when a condition is met.

  
• Description: Add a note for reference.

Modify column properties

To modify an existing data input column:

1. Go to Planning > Insert Column > Manage Measures.

2. Select the required option:

   • Edit (pencil icon) to modify the column

   • Delete to remove the column

   • Show/Hide to control column visibility

Alternatively, you can use the column gripper:

1. Hover over the column or measure header to display the column gripper.

2. Select the column gripper and choose the required action, such as Edit Measure, Delete Measure, or Hide Column.

1. If you select Edit option, a side panel opens where you can update the required properties. After making the changes, select Update.

Access control

Plan allows you to control read and write access for data input columns.

To configure access:

1. Select Security to open the access control window.

1. Locate the required column or measure.

2. Add users by searching for their name or email under:

• Read Access to provide view-only access.

• Read + Write Access to allow editing.

Notes

• Multiple users can enter data in the same published report, including in reading view. You can track all changes using the audit module.

• By default, users can view data entered by others. When row-level security (RLS) is enabled, users can only see the data they are authorized to access.

• No additional setup is required to enable data entry. You can use the data input feature to add input fields of various types.

• You can write back data to external destinations such as Fabric SQL. You can also export the data to formats such as PDF or Excel.