Introduction and Getting Started

• Why Tableau? Why Visualization?
• The Tableau Product Line
• Level Setting – Terminology
• Getting Started – creating some powerful visualizations quickly
• Review of some Key Fundamental Concepts

Filtering, Sorting & Grouping– Filtering, Sorting and Grouping are fundamental concepts
when working with and analyzing data. We will briefly review these topics as they apply to Tableau

• Advanced options for filtering and hiding
• Understanding your many options for ordering and grouping your data: Sort, Groups, Bins, Sets
• Understanding how all of these options inter-relate

Working with Data– In the Advanced class, we will understand the difference between joining and blending data, and when we should do each. We will also consider the implications of working with large data sets, and consider options for when and how to work with extracts and the data engine. We will also investigate best practices in “sharing” data sources for Tableau Server users.

• Data Types and Roles

                o Dimension versus Measures

o Data Types

o Discrete versus Continuous

o The meaning of pill colors

• Database Joins
• Data Blending
• Working with the Data Engine / Extracts and scheduling extract updates
• Working with Custom SQL
• Adding to Context
• Switching to Direct Connection

Working with Calculated Data and Statistics– In the Fundamentals Class, we were introduced to some basic calculations: basic string and arithmetic calculations and ratios and quick table calculations. In the Advanced class, we will extend those concepts to understand the intricacies of manipulating data within Tableau

• A Quick Review of Basic Calculations

o Arithmetic Calculations

o String Manipulation

o Date Calculations

o Quick Table Calculations

o Custom Aggregations

o Custom Calculated Fields

o Logic and Conditional Calculations

o Conditional Filters

• Advanced Table Calculations

o Understanding Scope and Direction

o Calculate on Results of Table Calculations

o Complex Calculations

o Difference From Average

o Discrete Aggregations

o Index to Ratios

Working with Parameters– In the Fundamentals class, we were introduced to parameters – How to create a parameter and use it in a calculation. In the Advanced class, we will go into more details on how we can use parameters to modify our title, create What-If analysis, etc

• Parameter Basics

o Data types of parameters

o Using parameters in calculated fields

o Inputting parameter values and parameter control options

• Advanced Usage of Parameters

o Using parameters for titles, field selections, logic statements, Top X

Building Advanced Chart Types and Visualizations / Tips & Tricks– This topic covers how to create some of the chart types and visualizations that may be less obvious in Tableau. It also covers some of the more common tips & tricks / techniques that we use to assist customers in solving some of their more complex problems.

• Bar in Bar
• Box Plot
• Bullet Chart
• Custom Shapes
• Gantt Chart
• Heat Map
• Pareto Chart
• Spark Line
• KPI Chart

Best Practices in Formatting and Visualizing

• Formatting Tips

o Drag to Legend

o Edit Legend

o Highlighting

o Labeling

o Legends

o Working with Nulls

o Table Options

o Annotations and Display Options

• Introduction to Visualization Best Practices