Tableau is powerful data visualization software used by many business and organizations to analyze and present their data quickly and easily. The two most popular ways to work with Tableau are Live and Extract. While both offer powerful data analysis, understanding the differences between the two can help you decide which one is right for you.
What is Tableau Live?
Tableau Live is a direct connection to a live data source. This means that any changes that are made to the data source in real-time will also be seen in Tableau. This is a great feature if you require real-time and up-to-date insights. However, it can be very intensive on resources and can be slower when loading and managing projects.
What is Tableau Extract?
Tableau Extract is a way to save your data in a format specific toTableau. The Extract is not directly connected to the data source, so any changes made to the source will not appear in Tableau unless the Extract is re-created. This takes some of the pressure off of the server and can reduce your load times when working with data in Tableau.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tableau Live
There are many advantages of using Tableau Live. These include:
Real-time data: As changes are made to the data, they will be seen immediately in Tableau. This can be useful if you need up-to-date insights.
Dynamic Dashboards: If you need to adjust the way that your data is presented, Tableau Live can help you do it quickly.
However, there are some disadvantages to using Tableau Live. These include:
Resource Intensive: Tableau Live is more intensive than Tableau Extract and can slow down your system when using larger data sets.
Limitations: Depending on your data source, there may be limitations on what you can do with the data in Tableau Live.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tableau Extract
The advantages of using Tableau Extract are:
Faster Load Times: Tableau Extract is not connected to the data source, so your load times may be faster when using data in Tableau.
Resource Efficient: Tableau Extract is not connected to the data source, so the server will not be as resource intensive as when working with Tableau Live.
The disadvantages of Tableau Extract include:
Not Real-time: Tableau Extract is not connected to the data source, so changes to the underlying data will not be seen in Tableau until the Extract is re-created.
Limitations: Depending on your data source, there may be limitations on what you can do with the data in Tableau Extract.
FAQ
What is Tableau Live?
Tableau Live is a direct connection to a live data source. This means that any changes that are made to the data source in real-time will also be seen in Tableau.
What is Tableau Extract?
Tableau Extract is a way to save your data in a format specific toTableau. The Extract is not directly connected to the data source, so any changes made to the source will not appear in Tableau unless the Extract is re-created.
What are the advantages of using Tableau Live?
The advantages of using Tableau Live include real-time data, dynamic dashboards, and flexibility.
What are the disadvantages of using Tableau Live?
The disadvantages of using Tableau Live include resource intensive operations, slower speeds, and potential limitations.
What are the advantages of using Tableau Extract?
The advantages of using Tableau Extract include faster load times, resource efficiency, and potential cost savings.
What are the disadvantages of Tableau Extract?
The disadvantages of Tableau Extract include non-real-time data, slower speeds, and potential limitations.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Live and Extract in Tableau can help you decide which one is right for your data analysis needs. Live is great for real-time analysis, while Extract is better for larger data sets. Both offer advantages and disadvantages, so understanding them is key to making the right decision for your needs.