When working with large datasets, such as the one containing over a billion rows in this scenario, loading the entire dataset can be time-consuming, especially during the development phase. Qlik Sense provides aFilter dataoption in the Data Manager, which allows business analysts to work with a subset of the data during development. This is particularly useful for rapidly prototyping the application design.
Key Concepts:
Filter Data Option: This feature in Qlik Sense allows the analyst to load a smaller sample of the dataset for analysis and development purposes. By filtering out unnecessary rows, the business analyst can quickly build and prototype the application without waiting for the full dataset to load. Once the design is finalized, the full dataset can be reloaded.
Prototyping with Reduced Data: It’s often more efficient to work with a smaller dataset during the design phase. This allows for faster iterations and design cycles, especially when working with large datasets.
Why the Other Options Are Less Suitable:
A. Split the dataset and create a normalized star schema of associated tables: This would involve complex data modeling that is not necessarily related to the immediate need of reducing the size of the dataset for prototyping. While star schemas can optimize data models, it’s not the quickest way to reduce the number of rows for initial testing.
B. Deselect text columns with unique data values to reduce the memory footprint: This may reduce the memory usage but won't necessarily address the issue of reducing the number of rows. Also, the text columns might be important for the analysis and should not be removed without careful consideration.
D. Truncate text fields longer than 256 characters to create preview fields: Truncating text fields will not significantly reduce the dataset size or the load time. It may also result in losing critical information, which is not ideal for prototyping.
References for Qlik Sense Business Analyst:
Rapid Prototyping: Qlik Sense encourages rapid development of applications by allowing business analysts to work with subsets of the data. The Filter Data option is an important tool for managing large datasets efficiently.
Data Manager Tools: The Data Manager in Qlik Sense provides several tools for reducing the dataset size, and filtering is one of the key options for improving performance during development.
Using theFilter dataoption allows the business analyst to focus on a smaller subset of data, enabling quicker prototyping and iteration, which makes optionCthe most effective solution.