Tableau Small Multiples

Tableau Small Multiples

“Small multiples” refers to a technique where multiple charts or visualizations are displayed together on a single screen, each depicting a different subset or category of data. This technique is particularly useful for comparing patterns and trends across different segments of the data in a structured and efficient manner. Tableau, as a powerful data visualization tool, enables you to create small multiples using various chart types. Here’s how to achieve this in Tableau:

• Data Preparation:
  • Ensure your data is properly structured and contains the necessary fields for creating small multiples. You’ll typically need a categorical variable that will be used to segment the data.
• Create a Chart:
  • Create the initial chart or visualization that you want to replicate across small multiples.
• Duplicate and Modify:
  • Duplicate the chart by copying the worksheet.
  • Modify the duplicated chart to use the categorical variable as a filter or dimension.
• Small Multiples Grid:
  • Arrange the charts in a grid format on a dashboard. Each chart should correspond to a unique value of the categorical variable.
• Synchronize Actions (Optional):
  • If you want to enhance interactivity, you can set up actions to allow interactions between the small multiples. For example, clicking on one chart could highlight related data in the others.
• Formatting and Design:
  • Ensure a consistent format, size, and layout for all the small multiples for clarity and ease of comparison.
• Dashboard Interaction (Optional):
  • You can add filters or parameters to the dashboard to control the data displayed across all the small multiples simultaneously.
• Save and Share:
  • Save the dashboard containing the small multiples.
  • Publish the dashboard to Tableau Server, Tableau Online, or export it for sharing with others.

Small multiples allow you to explore patterns and differences between categories quickly. By presenting multiple views side by side, you facilitate the identification of trends that might not be apparent when viewing a single chart.