I. Introduction & Objectives

·       Goal: Learn how to replace a data source while identifying and fixing common errors that occur during the process.

·       Preparation: Unhide all worksheets before starting. This makes it easier to spot the red exclamation marks that signify broken fields or calculations across the entire workbook.

·       The "Action" Warning: Note that dashboard actions, such as hiding/showing charts based on selection, will likely stop working after a data source change.

II. The Pre-Replacement Audit

·       Calculated Fields: Review existing folders for calculations. In this example, "Store Order ID" depends on the "Order ID" field being a string. If the new source imports this as an integer, the calculation will break.

·       Parameters & Sets: Check parameters that load values from specific fields upon opening (e.g., "Order Date"). If the data type changes from date to text, the parameter functionality will fail.

·       Dashboard Actions: Review the Actions pane. If an action relies on a field that is renamed in the new source (like "Category"), the interactive link between charts will break.

III. Using the Data Source Metadata

·       Data Source Tab: Navigate to the data source tab in the bottom left to compare field metadata.

·       Remote vs. Local Names: The metadata table shows the "Field Name" (your local rename) versus the "Remote Field Name" (the original name in the source). Use this to verify data types (ABC for strings, # for numbers) before making the switch.

IV. Executing the Replacement

·       Step 1: Ensure both the current data source and the new source are added to the workbook.

·       Step 2: Select Data > Replace Data Source from the top menu.

·       Step 3: Confirm the "Current" and "Replacement" sources in the dialogue box.