MC1180889 – Microsoft Viva Insights: Retirement of Export via Microsoft Graph Data Connect (MGDC) (archived)

Product:

Entra, Fabric, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft Graph, Microsoft Viva, Microsoft Viva Insights, Power BI

Platform:

Developer, Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

User impact, Admin impact, Retirement

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft is retiring Viva Insights export via Microsoft Graph Data Connect (MGDC). New onboarding stops 30 days after the announcement; existing users keep access until full retirement, starting late November 2025. Customers should switch to the Power BI Connector to Microsoft Fabric or CSV export. Admins must update settings in the Microsoft 365 Admin Portal.

Details:
To streamline data export processes and improve security, Microsoft is retiring the Viva Insights export capability via Microsoft Graph Data Connect (MGDC). This change does not impact other export alternatives via Viva Insights.
When this will happen
Onboarding of new customers and scenarios to Viva Insights export via MGDC will stop 30 days from this announcement.
Existing customers will retain access to current MGDC data export pipeline until full retirement. Final timelines will be shared in future communications.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-10-28

updated:
2025-10-28

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Data Access Changes
Retirement of MGDC alters how users access and export their existing datasets, requiring a transition to alternative methods.
   - roles: Data Analysts, IT Administrators
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/admin/dynamic-metric-load, https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/power-bi-connector " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/power-bi-connector

User Experience Impact
Users will need to adapt to new export methods (Power BI Connector or CSV), which may disrupt their workflow.
   - roles: End Users, Data Analysts
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/query-results#download-and-import-results-in-excel" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/query-results#download-and-import-results-in-excel, https://learn.microsoft.com/fabric/data-factory/dataflow-gen2-data-destinations-and-managed-settings

Compliance and Data Management
Changes in data export methods may affect how users manage their personal data under GDPR, requiring new processes.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, Data Protection Officers
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/admin/dynamic-metric-load, https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/power-bi-connector " target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/power-bi-connector

Admin Control Adjustments
Admins must update settings in the Microsoft 365 Admin Portal to manage dataset access, which may lead to temporary access issues.
   - roles: IT Administrators, System Administrators
   - references: https://admin.microsoft.com/adminportal, https://learn.microsoft.com/fabric/data-factory/pricing-dataflows-gen2

Training and Support Needs
Users and admins may require additional training and support to effectively transition to new export methods, impacting productivity.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/power-bi-connector, https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/query-results#download-and-import-results-in-excel" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/viva/insights/advanced/analyst/query-results#download-and-import-results-in-excel

Configutation Options**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft is making a change to how data is exported from Viva Insights, a tool that helps organizations understand work patterns. Previously, data could be exported using a method called Microsoft Graph Data Connect (MGDC). However, this method is being phased out, and organizations will need to switch to other options like the Power BI Connector or CSV export.

Think of it like this: Imagine you have a favorite route to drive to work every day, but the city decides to close that road permanently. You can no longer use that route, so you need to find an alternative way to get to work. Similarly, organizations using Viva Insights need to find a new way to export their data because the old route (MGDC) is closing.

For those who need to switch, the Power BI Connector is like taking a new highway that offers a smooth and fast journey, allowing for advanced data analysis and reporting. It does come with some costs, similar to tolls on a highway, but it provides a comprehensive way to handle data. Alternatively, the CSV export is like taking a simpler, straightforward road. It’s basic but gets the job done for those who prefer a more traditional approach.

Administrators in organizations will need to update settings in the Microsoft 365 Admin Portal to transition from the old method to the new ones. This is akin to updating your GPS with the new route to ensure you reach your destination without any hiccups.

In summary, while the old method of exporting data is being retired, there are alternative routes available that offer both advanced and straightforward options to meet different needs. Organizations should prepare for this change by selecting the export method that best suits their requirements.