Connecting to Sources

The first step in virtually any data analytics process is to connect to data. Tableau (and machines in general) cannot natively know where, how, or when to look for data. This link must be initially set up by the user.

Tableau offers many options for data connectivity, from simple spreadsheets on a local device to large online repositories accessible anywhere in the world. Naturally, with such varied means of storing data, the process for setting up these connections differs. Nonetheless, the location must always be specified in some way.

Data often contains sensitive information and is relied upon to represent real events. It is, therefore, important to maintain its integrity. Some kind of authentication is often required to prove user identity, especially for data stored on the cloud and intended to be accessed remotely; this most commonly involves entering credentials (such as a username or password).

It is important to note that none of the services in the Tableau Suite (such as Desktop, Prep, or Server) have the tools or permissions to change the underlying source data. Tableau can only edit duplications of the data contained within its own environment.

Organizations with a base level of data maturity, typically medium to large companies, often have established data sources and servers, such as Teradata, Snowflake, or even Tableau Server, which Tableau users are expected to utilize. However, it is certainly possible for data analysts and those in similar roles to find themselves establishing new sources. In any scenario, there are requirements and best practices for data that all users should be aware of.