Understanding the View Data Model Feature in Tableau

Overview

The View Data Model feature in Tableau helps users understand the structure of their data source while working on a visualization. Instead of switching back and forth between the Data Source tab and the worksheet, this feature provides a visual representation of how tables are related within the data model.

Useful: Master the Tableau Data Model.

How to Turn on View Data Model

To access the view data model while on the worksheet.

Open worksheet menu and select View Data Model.

Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+I (for windows) or Command+Shift+I (for Mac).

Note: A dialog box showing the data model of the active data sources is populated as shown below.

Note: The View Data Model is read-only and doesn't allow you to inspect details of the data model. If you need more details about the data model visit the Data Source Page.

When working with multiple data sources, the View Data Model displays the active data source depending on the following.

• If the worksheet has at least one field in use, the dialog will always show that data source regardless of what data source is selected in the Data pane.

(The data model can't be displayed for cube data sources or worksheets with active data blending.)

• If the worksheet is empty, the view data model dialog will display whatever data source is selected in the Data pane. You can toggle between the data sources to view each data model in turn.

• If there are map layers involving multiple data sources, whichever map layer is active determines which data source is active

Hiding Unused Tables

With the Hide Unused Tables option, you can change between seeing the entire data source to a minimal data source that only shows tables actively used in the viz.

For example, toggling the Hide Unused Tables button shows only the Orders table - which contains the fields actively used in this viz.

Conclusion

The View Data Model feature in Tableau is a powerful tool for understanding and analyzing data structures within a visualization. By providing a clear, interactive way to explore relationships between tables, fields, and data sources, it enhances transparency and ensures accurate reporting. Whether you're troubleshooting data inconsistencies or optimizing your analytics workflow, this feature empowers users to make informed decisions. As Tableau continues to evolve, leveraging such capabilities will be crucial for maintaining efficiency and accuracy in data-driven insights.

If you like the work we do and would like to work with us, drop us an email on our contacts page and we’ll reach out!

Thank you for reading!