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What are parameters?

Parameters are a workbook variable that is defined as a number, date or string. It can act as a filter, reference or replace a value in your data source. With parameters you can also create ‘parameter actions’ that let’s the user dynamically change set parameters when interacting with the viz.

I like to use parameters when creating a dashboards with multiple data sources. I also use parameters to activate different views when I use parameters as filters. Keep in mind, I still make every effort to process my data into one large dataset (in practice) during my ETL phase; but sometimes when I am tasked with multiple data sets in the dashboard build phase, I will incorporate with parameters.

Using the superstore sales dataset I create a quick dashboard where I do the following with parameters:

• Change views
• Use as a filter
• Interact as a reference line
• Change a calculation
• Use in a parameter action

I hope that by viewing the below video this will get those creative juices flowing to start using parameters in your dashboard builds.

Enjoy and remember any feedback is welcome!