Once you have created a new app, you need to add data to it. The data can be added and managed using the data manager or the data load editor. You can also use a combination of both.
There isn’t a hard rule for when you should use one over the other. It’s based on your preferences and the complexity of the data model required. Here are some pros and cons of using either method to add data.
The data manager
Pros
- There is no scripting required
- Working with data is visual
- Adding and joining data together is simple
Cons
- Data transformations you can achieve are fairly simple
- While you don’t have to script, you do need to know how to use various formulas for adding new calculating fields
- There are many screens and steps to achieving desired results. If you can script, it’s quicker
The data load editor
Pros
- You can use the full power of Qlik Sense scripting language to achieve complex data transformations
- If you know how to script, this is quicker than using the data manager
- You can utilise variables
Cons
- You need to know/ be willing to learn how to use the Qlik Sense scripting language
- Building the data model isn’t as visual as you don’t see any data preview or metadata in the load editor
When you’ve decided which method you’re going to use, use the ‘core knowledge sections’ menu to navigate to the relevant section.
Regardless of which way you choose to work with data in your app, you need to consider the data model as a whole before you start loading data. This is because the naming of your fields and data transformations will depend on the ultimate goal you’re trying to achieve with your data model.
