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Architecture Overview

Intelexos is built on modern web technologies and utilizes Azure resources to deliver a robust, scalable, and secure platform for embedding Power BI reports. Below is an overview of the application architecture.

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High-Level Architecture

Intelexos is a cloud-based application designed to streamline the integration of Power BI reports into user workflows. Its architecture consists of the following major components:

Frontend

  • Technology: The frontend is hosted on Azure Static Web Apps, providing a performant and scalable interface for users.
  • Features: The user interface is designed for seamless interaction with reports, profiles, and administrative tools.

Backend

  • Hosting: Azure Static Web Apps also powers the backend through Azure Functions, enabling efficient serverless operations.
  • Power BI Integration: The backend communicates with Power BI via the Power BI REST APIs using Service Principal profiles for authentication and data retrieval.

Database

  • Cosmos DB:
    • Acts as the primary data store, ensuring high availability and low latency for managing user profiles, report configurations, and application data.

Authentication

  • Default Authentication: Azure Static Web Apps provides built-in authentication through Microsoft Accounts, streamlining user onboarding.
  • OpenID Integration: The application can also integrate with any OpenID identity provider, offering flexibility for organizations with custom authentication needs.

Security

  • Azure Key Vault: Securely stores application secrets, including keys and tokens, ensuring compliance with best practices.

Key Processes

Power BI Report Embedding

  1. Service Principal Profiles:
    • Service Principals are configured to interact with Power BI, ensuring secure access to workspaces, reports, and datasets.
  2. Connection Profiles:
    • Connection profiles manage credentials and permissions for the Service Principal.
  3. Report Embedding:
    • Users select reports, datasets, or paginated reports from Power BI workspaces to embed in Intelexos.

Authentication and User Management

  • Microsoft Account Login: Ensures secure and quick login for users.
  • Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):
    • Admins can manage user roles, providing granular control over application permissions.

Deployment and Hosting

  • Azure Static Web Apps:
    • Provides hosting for both the frontend and backend, ensuring seamless scalability and global reach.
  • Serverless Functions:
    • Backend operations are powered by Azure Functions, optimizing costs and performance.

Scalability and Performance

  1. Azure Static Web Apps: Automatically scales to meet user demand.
  2. Cosmos DB: Offers global distribution and low-latency access for a responsive user experience.
  3. Service Principal Optimization: Reduces overhead by centralizing Power BI access.

Future Considerations

  • Enhanced Role Management: Expanding RBAC features for more granular control.
  • Custom Analytics: Integrating additional analytics to monitor user behavior and report usage.
  • Third-Party Integrations: Simplifying workflows by connecting with more identity providers and external APIs.