In today’s data-driven world, it is essential for businesses to make informed decisions based on accurate insights. Without knowing what questions to ask ahead of time, it can be difficult to create the right data visualization that will provide the information you need for each scenario.
Domo recently introduced a new feature, Variables, which offers powerful self-service analytics capabilities, enabling users to turn static dashboards into dynamic, interactive dashboards. Variables provide an intuitive way for users to explore their data without having to create individual data visualizations to account for each data view.
Let’s take a look at what variables are in Domo, how to use them, and why they are so valuable for unlocking business insights through increased interactivity and flexibility.
What are the variables?
A variable is a user-defined input in Domo that allows you to quickly manipulate existing data calculations. Variables are used in calculated fields, commonly called Beast Mode calculations, and can be modified using variable controls on visualizations and dashboards. You can think of variables as independent variables in an equation, allowing you to quickly adjust the visuals without changing the underlying data. When you change the value of a Variable using a Variable control, all dashboard views that use this Variable in a calculation will be updated to reflect the new value of the Variable.
How can I use a variable?
To use a variable, first create the variable and define its fields in the Beast Mode Editor. Fields include the Variable name and description, data type, and default value. You can also select a default control type for any available value, if applicable. In the Beast Mode Editor (pictured below) you can create new variables or edit existing variables created in the example and use them in Beast Mode calculations. By adding a variable to a Beast Mode calculation, you enable other users to temporarily modify this calculation using the Variable control on either the visualization or the dashboard. The calculation will use the default value of the Variable unless the user configures the Variable control. For example, visualization or dashboard viewers can change a numeric value from 5% to 10% and view any visualization using updates to this variable to reflect this new input value. It is important to note that changing a variable control does not permanently update the value passed to the calculation and will not affect another user’s views or dashboards.
How do variables add value to my business?
Variables unlock important business insights by providing some analytics, dynamic data views, and tools to perform targeted analysis.
With variables, users can examine how key performance indicators will be affected when a particular value is adjusted. What if you assumed a higher inflation rate or seller subsidy rate? How will the increase in lead conversion rate affect the sales of the new logo? Will a 10% increase in shipping costs reduce my product margin from the destination? These are the types of questions that can be answered quickly with Variables (you can try the variables yourself using the content posted below).
Additionally, Variables can significantly reduce the amount of clutter on the dashboard. Instead of displaying several different visualizations with different dimensions sliced ​​and diced, dashboards can be built using Variables so users can simply modify a single visualization with different dimensions/dimensions to get the look they’re looking for. What are my sales by region? What about my sales by product category? Now let’s filter a specific product category and view by subcategory. What about profit? This kind of dynamic exploration with variables becomes natural.
By providing the right business levers for viewers to adjust, Variables help guide analysis to unlock valuable insights.
Conclusion
Domo Variables is a powerful tool for users who need self-service analytics that allow you to easily drill down into multiple business scenarios. And they benefit IT/Analytics teams by allowing business users to explore the data themselves.
Click here to view a demo of the Variables and use them today.