Add Option to Select Existing Connections in Dataflow Gen2 Data Source Dialog

Enhancing usability by allowing selection of pre-defined connections when connecting to data sources in Dataflow Gen2.

Use Case:

When creating a Dataflow Gen2 in Fabric, users need to connect to data sources. Currently, the data source connection dialog does not provide an option to select from already defined connections within the workspace. However, if a user connects to the same resource, Fabric recognizes that a connection already exists and utilizes it.

This workflow can be unintuitive and may lead to confusion or redundant connections. By adding a tab or option in the data source dialog to choose from existing connections, users can streamline the process of connecting to data sources, ensure consistency, and improve efficiency.

Benefits:

• Improved Usability: Simplifies the data source connection process by allowing users to select from existing connections, reducing the need to re-enter connection details.

• Consistency: Ensures that all dataflows use the same connection settings, reducing the risk of configuration errors.

• Time Savings: Eliminates redundant steps, saving time when setting up multiple dataflows that use the same data sources.

• Enhanced Manageability: Centralizes connection management, making it easier to update credentials or settings in one place rather than across multiple dataflows.

Proposal:

I propose that Fabric adds a feature in the Dataflow Gen2 data source connection dialog that allows users to select from existing, pre-defined connections within the workspace. This could be implemented as an additional tab or option in the dialog box. By doing so, users can easily choose an existing connection, ensuring consistency and saving time during the dataflow setup process.

Thank you for considering this suggestion.