Real-Time Changes Data Capture Dashboard in Microsoft Fabric

Client Region – USA
Company Size – 200 – 500 people
Domain – Software Development

Challenges

A dynamic business environment requires real-time insights from continuously changing datasets. This case study showcases the creation of a real-time CDC dashboard using Microsoft Fabric’s integrated ecosystem. The solution streamlined data ingestion, transformation, and visualization, enabling up-to-the-minute decision-making.

Process Overview

Bronze Layer: Ingesting CDC Data from Azure SQL to KQL Database

• Source: The primary data source is Azure SQL Database enabled with CDC.
• Event Streaming: Data changes are captured via Event Stream and directly ingested into a KQL Database.

Silver Layer: Filtering and Enrichment

Data Activator:

• A Data Activator is configured to monitor the KQL Database in the Bronze Layer.
• On detecting specific triggers or thresholds, the activator invokes a Fabric Notebook.

Fabric Notebook:

• Performs column-based filtering and data refinement.
• The cleaned and enriched data is then ingested into a new KQL Database in the Silver Layer.

Outcome: The Silver Layer serves as an intermediate storage for filtered and partially processed data, ensuring efficiency and scalability.

Gold Layer: Advanced Transformation and Dashboard Integration

Data Activator:

• Another Data Activator monitors the KQL Database in the Silver Layer.
• Triggers a Fabric Notebook for advanced transformations and business logic implementation.

Fabric Notebook:

• Applies complex transformations to derive actionable insights.
• The processed data is stored in a KQL Database in the Gold Layer.

Dashboard:

• The Gold Layer’s KQL Database acts as the final data source for building a Real-Time Dashboard.
• The dashboard provides live metrics and visualizations, empowering decision-makers with instantaneous insights.

Key Features of the Solution

• Real-Time Data Flow: Changes in the Azure SQL CDC source are reflected in the dashboard with minimal latency.
• Scalable Architecture: Each layer is designed to handle large volumes of data efficiently.
• Seamless Transformation: Fabric Notebooks enable both lightweight and advanced data processing without external dependencies.
• Actionable Triggers: Data Activators ensure responsive workflows by automating task execution based on data thresholds or events.
• Interactive Dashboards: Powered by the Gold Layer’s KQL Database, the dashboard delivers dynamic insights with an intuitive interface.

Qualitative Impact

• Real-Time Decisions: Enables prompt, data-driven actions.
• Enhanced Data Quality: Multi-layer filtering ensures accuracy.
• Scalable Framework: Modular design supports future growth.
• Automation: Data Activators eliminate manual intervention.

Quantitative Impact

• Latency: End-to-end data flow latency reduced to <10 seconds.
• Efficiency: 25% faster processing than traditional pipelines.
• Cost Savings: 30% reduction in computational expenses.

Conclusion

This Real-Time Change Data Capture Dashboard in Microsoft Fabric showcases a robust end-to-end solution for real-time data processing and visualization. By leveraging Microsoft Fabric’s capabilities, the architecture ensures a seamless flow from raw data ingestion to actionable insights, empowering organizations to make timely, data-driven decisions.