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Version: 9.2

Custom Datasets

Custom Datasets enable users to create tailored datasets directly from a dashboard. Each Custom Dataset is a subset of data derived from an existing dataset, making it ideal for pivoting, preparing data for specialized analytics, or sharing specific data snapshots. Custom Datasets are managed independently, and automatically update when the source dataset changes.

Why Use Custom Datasets?​

Custom Datasets are useful for the following tasks:

  • Creating pivoted or transformed views of existing data.
  • Analyzing static snapshots that can stay synchronized with the source dataset.
  • Enabling end users to generate their own customized datasets directly from a dashboard.

Key Features:

  • Tailored Data Selection: Create datasets with specific columns, filters, and calculated fields to meet unique business needs.
  • Flexible Transformations: Apply pivoting and logic to shape data as required.
  • Reusable Logic: Save and reuse complex data preparation steps across multiple dashboards or reports.
  • Integration: Use as sources for dashboards, reports, and Dataset Views.
  • Auto-Sync: Automatically synchronize with the original data source.
  • Shareable: Share custom datasets across applications or with other users.
  • Lightweight Management: Designed for quick setup and maintenance.

Use Case​

Advanced analysis, pivoting, or sharing static snapshots of data.

Create a Custom Dataset​

Use custom datasets when you need a pivoted or transformed view of your data, or when you want to analyze a static snapshot that can be kept in sync with the source.

  1. From a dashboard, open the dashboard containing the data to export.
  2. Select Create Dataset and select Create New.
  3. Follow the prompts to export the data and create your custom dataset.

The new custom dataset appears in the Data section with type Custom.

Custom Dataset Types and Identification​

Custom datasets are listed in the Data section with a distinct Type label: Custom. They can be managed (deleted, sync toggled) from this list.

You cannot edit the design page of a custom dataset (editing is disabled).

Pivot with Custom Datasets​

To use pivoting in a custom dataset:

  • Enable pivoting in the source dataset by following the Pivot and Export Data guide.
  • When creating a custom dataset, the creation modal prompts to enable pivoting (choose Yes or No).
  • If enabled, you can pivot the data as needed in your custom dataset, allowing for advanced analysis such as aggregating, grouping, or transforming data for specific reporting needs.

Example: Pivot sales data by region and product to create a summary custom dataset for executive review.

Synchronize Custom Datasets​

  • Automatic Sync: Custom datasets are kept up-to-date automatically, based on the sync schedule of the source Dataset.
  • Sync Frequency: The system updates custom datasets at most every 12 hours.
  • Sync Triggers: When the source Dataset completes a data load (sync or manual), the custom dataset will sync if:
    • More than 12 hours have passed since the last custom dataset load (for sync loads).
    • More than 12 hours remain until the next sync schedule (for manual loads).
    • There is no next sync schedule on the source Dataset.

Warning: When creating a custom dataset, users are notified that updates occur every 12 hours at most.

Manage Custom Datasets​

  • Viewing: Use the View Existing option in the Dashboard's Create Dataset menu to see all custom datasets for your application.
  • Table Columns:
    • Name
    • Source Dataset
    • Records
    • Columns
    • Last Load Data Sync (on/off)
  • Actions (Three-dot Menu):
    • Turn Sync On/Off: Toggle automatic syncing for each custom dataset.
    • Delete: Remove a custom dataset (this also deletes its sync/export process and files).

Limitations and Considerations​

  • Performance depends on the complexity of transformations and data volume.
  • Data is stored in a CSV file.
  • Custom Datasets can be managed (deleted, shared, or synced), but not edited. The Design page is disabled.
  • Pivoting option must be enabled in the source dataset first.

See Also​