How can you create custom queries in a BI platform?

1 SQL queries

One of the most widely used methods to create custom queries in a BI platform is to use SQL (Structured Query Language), a standard language for manipulating and querying data in relational databases. SQL queries consist of statements that specify what data you want to retrieve, from which tables, and how to filter, sort, group, or aggregate it. For example, you can use a SQL query to find the total sales of a product category by month and compare it with the previous year. Many BI platforms have a SQL editor or a query builder that allows you to write and execute SQL queries directly on the data sources. Some examples of BI platforms that support SQL queries are Tableau, Power BI, and Looker.

2 Scripting languages

Another method to create custom queries in a BI platform is to use scripting languages, such as Python, R, or JavaScript, that can interact with data sources and perform complex operations on data. Scripting languages are especially useful for data analysis, data science, and machine learning tasks, as they offer a range of libraries and frameworks that can help you perform statistical, mathematical, or predictive functions on data. For example, you can use a scripting language to create a custom query that applies a machine learning model to your data and generates a forecast or a recommendation. Some BI platforms have a scripting editor or a notebook interface that allows you to write and run scripts on the data sources. Some examples of BI platforms that support scripting languages are Databricks, Google Data Studio, and Mode.

3 Graphical interfaces

A third method to create custom queries in a BI platform is to use graphical interfaces, such as drag-and-drop, point-and-click, or menu-driven tools, that can help you build queries without writing code. Graphical interfaces are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, and they can help you create queries by selecting data fields, applying filters, choosing functions, and visualizing results. For example, you can use a graphical interface to create a custom query that shows the distribution of customer satisfaction ratings by region and product type. Some BI platforms have a graphical interface that allows you to create queries on the data sources. Some examples of BI platforms that support graphical interfaces are Qlik Sense, Microsoft Excel, and Sisense.

4 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?