Creating dual date filters for period comparison charts requires proper data preparation rather than relying on visualization tools alone. The key is structuring your comparison datasets correctly before building the actual chart interface.
Here’s how to prepare comparison-ready data and implement dual filtering for effective period analysis.
Build comparison datasets using Coefficient
While visualization tools handle the dual filter interface, Coefficient excels at preparing the underlying comparison datasets that make period comparison charts possible. The strength lies in data preparation and maintaining historical snapshots alongside current data.
How to make it work
Step 1. Set up separate imports for each comparison period.
Create multiple Salesforce imports in Salesforce , each filtered to specific time periods. Use dynamic filtering capabilities to point to cells containing your period start and end dates. This allows you to adjust comparison periods without rebuilding your entire import setup.
Step 2. Use Snapshots to preserve historical data.
Schedule monthly or quarterly Snapshots to capture data at different time intervals. This creates permanent historical records that won’t change when your source data updates. Set up automated snapshots to run at the end of each comparison period.
Step 3. Structure data with period identifiers.
Add calculated columns in your spreadsheet to identify periods like “Current Quarter” or “Previous Quarter.” Use Formula Auto Fill Down to automatically apply these period calculations to new data as it comes in. This creates the foundation that visualization tools need for dual filtering.
Step 4. Maintain live connections with Append New Data.
Use the Append New Data feature to add current period information without overwriting your historical comparison data. This maintains both live connections to current data and preserved snapshots for accurate comparisons.
Step 5. Export structured data to your visualization tool.
Once your comparison dataset is properly structured with period identifiers and historical snapshots, export it to your chosen visualization platform. The clean data structure enables the visualization tool to implement dual filter controls effectively.
Start building better period comparisons
Dual date filters work best when your underlying data is properly structured for comparison analysis. Coefficient handles the complex data preparation while your visualization tools focus on user-friendly filtering interfaces. Get started with automated period comparison data today.