Are you trying to get the most out of your data for your research It can be hard to make sense of all the information available — it’s spread across multiple sources, uses a range of search terms, and is constantly changing.
But with Trendata’s powerful search feature, you can easily find what you need, quickly pinpoint relevant insights, and overcome data-related challenges.
We’ll run through how simple it is to navigate the search features in Trendata so that you can access powerful insights and maximize opportunities with efficient searching.
Choosing Your Data Source
At first glance, Trendata’s search menu may seem packed with various elements. But don’t worry, each one has been carefully designed to help you navigate your data smoothly. Think of it like a well-organized toolbox, where everything you need is within easy reach.
Your data journey begins at the top left, where you have the option to select a data source. This could be either a worksheet or a table.
Consider a worksheet as a comprehensive data repository, housing a collection of related tables optimized for searching. For example, the “insights” worksheet contains all possible tables you might need.
On the other hand, a table is a more specific dataset, loaded by an administrator, and contains data for one particular measure or attribute. It’s like choosing between a library (worksheet) and a specific book (table).
When using Search Data for the first time, Trendata intelligently selects the most popular data source in the cluster that you have access to. However, you have the freedom to choose a different one according to your needs.
The Data Panel
Just below the data source, lies the data panel, your control centre for measures, attributes, date attributes, formulas, and parameters. This panel offers three views to suit your preference:
- Popular columns — showcasing the columns you use most often.
- By category — organising your columns per category (measures, attributes, date attributes, formulas & parameters).
- A to Z — listing your columns alphabetically.
Think of it as your personal data catalogue. You can either scroll through the data panel or use the search bar to cherry-pick specific columns.
Execute Your Search Query
When you’re ready to add a variable to your search query, all you need to do is select the checkbox next to your desired column or simply double-click on it.
Once you’ve selected a column, you’ll notice a filter icon appear. Clicking on this filter icon gives you the ability to include or exclude specific values within a column as a filter. This helps you to narrow down your results, enabling you to find precise and targeted insights. You’ll see these filters reflected in your search query, reminding you of the parameters you’ve set.
Need to know more about a column? Just click on the ‘i’ icon adjacent to your chosen column. This opens a treasure trove of information about the column such as its description, synonyms, sample values, and even the most viewed answers associated with it.
The search bar, sitting at the heart of the interface, is your ultimate guide. It’s crafted thoughtfully to make it easy for you to identify your search terms. Just type in what you’re looking for, and it will do all the heavy lifting, fetching the data you need.
And when you strike gold with an insightful answer, don’t let it slip away. Press the ‘pin answer’ button to secure it to a live board you’ve created earlier. This way, you preserve your valuable findings for future reference or to share with your team.
Sometimes mistakes happen, but they don’t have to be permanent. With the undo, redo, and reset icons at the top right, you’re in full control of your actions. Whether you need to go back a step, reapply an action, or start fresh, these features are just a click away.
Get More From Your Data
As you move your gaze to the far right of your screen, you’ll spot three icons that will help you get more from your data.
Chart Libary: Bringing Your Data to Life
The first icon leads you into our comprehensive chart library. This isn’t just a collection of graphs; it’s a powerful toolbox of visual storytelling aids.
Each graph type has its strengths in displaying specific data structures, which could be pivotal in uncovering hidden trends or patterns in your data. Plus, this feature can enhance your data presentation skills and facilitate better decision-making processes.
The hover feature informs you of the minimum attributes and measures required for each graph, ensuring you have the necessary components for effective visualization.
Chart Configuration: Personalize Your Data Visualization
The chart configuration feature provides an array of customization options, allowing you to adjust the aesthetics of your charts to suit your preferences or your audience’s needs.
You can modify colours, legends, axis details, and number formats, making your data more accessible and easier to interpret. By tailoring your charts, you can focus on what’s truly important and drive your narrative more effectively, leading to more productive discussions and strategic decisions.
Query Details Button: Gain Insight into Your Data Processing
The Query details feature offers transparency into Trendata’s computation process, displaying the measures calculated for each combination of attributes.
It gives you a peek under the hood, showing you how your filters are applied and how tables are linked. For those interested in the technical details, it even reveals the exact SQL query used to generate your answer. This level of insight can increase your understanding of your data and boost confidence in the accuracy and reliability of your results.
From Exploration to Excellence
Navigating Trendata’s search is straightforward once you grasp these steps.
It’s not just about data analysis; it’s about harnessing the power of your data to extract meaningful insights, make informed decisions, and drive success.
With Trendata, you’re equipped with the tools to explore, experiment, and excel. Dive in and let your data discovery journey begin.
