How do you test and validate your GDS output before submitting or sharing it?

1 Check your data sources

The first step is to make sure your data sources are correctly connected and configured in GDS. You can use the data source fields panel to inspect the data type, aggregation, and formula of each field. You can also use the refresh fields option to update the data source schema if you make any changes to the underlying data. If you encounter any errors or warnings, you can use the data source settings panel to troubleshoot and resolve them.

2 Preview your output

The next step is to preview your output in the GDS interface. You can use the view mode to see how your output will look like to your audience. You can also use the filter and date range controls to test different scenarios and check if your output responds as expected. You can also use the inspect option to view the details of each chart or table, such as the data source, query, and filters applied.

3 Validate your calculations

Another important step is to validate your calculations and formulas in GDS. You can use the calculated fields option to create custom metrics or dimensions based on your data. You can also use the blended data option to combine data from different sources and create new calculations. However, you need to make sure that your calculations are accurate and consistent with your data sources and business logic. You can use the formula editor to check the syntax and validity of your expressions. You can also use the debug option to see the results of your calculations for each row of data.

4 Test your interactions

A key feature of GDS is the ability to create interactive output that allows your audience to explore and analyze the data. You can use the interactions option to enable or disable interactions for each component in your output. You can also use the drill down option to create hierarchies and levels of detail for your charts and tables. However, you need to test your interactions to make sure they work as intended and provide a smooth and intuitive user experience. You can use the preview mode to simulate the interactions and check if they trigger the correct actions and responses.

5 Review your design

The final step is to review your design and layout in GDS. You can use the style and theme options to customize the appearance and format of your output. You can also use the layout and snap options to align and arrange your components in a grid or freeform mode. However, you need to review your design to make sure it is clear, consistent, and appealing to your audience. You can use the page settings option to adjust the size and orientation of your output. You can also use the share option to generate a link or embed code for your output and preview it in different devices and browsers.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?