Data + YOU Highlights from Tableau Conference 2015

Tableau Conference 2015 was really, really BIG this year! It was incredible to see 10,000+ data enthusiasts hanging out in LAS VEGAS.

I still remember a few years ago I would mention "Tableau" to folks and they wouldn't know what that was. Now when you mention "Tableau" to colleagues/others in the industry, they definitely know what you're talking about.

And it's clear that many other companies are trying to mimic what Tableau is doing. Their mission of Helping others to see and to understand data is becoming increasingly important as data becomes bigger and bigger.

We need to be able to analyze data FAST. And Tableau delivers on this promise. That is the main reason why you're seeing its customer base continue to grow.

Helping others to see and to understand DATA will continue to be important as data grows.
Lots of Tableau LOVE everywhere at the conference!

My favorite new feature in Tableau

One of the best parts about the conference for me has to be when Tableau Developers come on stage.

This year was no different as developers demonstrated an array of new features that are coming to Tableau. From improved data prep tools to mobile advancements, there was something for everyone.

My personal favorite new feature has to be "Viz within a Viz".

The ability to add sheets to your tooltips is something that I've seen a lot of people asking for. I already know it's going to make dashboards even better.

It definitely fits in nicely with that famous mantra from Ben Shneiderman:

Overview first, zoom and filter, then details on demand

I can already envision different use cases for this. The fact that it's so easy is what makes Tableau a joy to use. Can't wait to try it out!

Looks like it's probably coming in Tableau 10 as I haven't seen it yet in the Tableau 9.2 Beta.

New Products

One area that I continue to see Tableau moving towards is NEW PRODUCTS. At the conference, they introduced a new Mobile product called VIZABLE.

I see this product being aimed more at those who wouldn't necessarily call themselves data savvy. It's for people who want to be able to quickly analyze their data in a visual way. Having played with it a bit, I can see it drawing in a whole new set of customers to Tableau.

Will definitely be interesting to see where this product goes in the future. If you have an iPad, be sure to check it out.

I had some great conversations with the developers and there are many exciting improvements to come. And yes, for the Android fans, they are working on bringing it to Android tablets in the future.

Keynotes

One thing I've always appreciated about Tableau Conference are the top notch speakers they have every year. This year was no exception as they had Daniel Pink, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Hannah Fry, and Sir Ken Robinson. What a lineup!

It's also a great opportunity to stock up on some new books, especially, after you hear them speak.

I really enjoyed Daniel Pink's keynote where he spoke about Motivation. He really got me thinking about how it's imperative to motivate people in the right way. It's not just about more money, but it's also about intrinsic rewards, specifically ...  Autonomy, Mastery, and Purpose.

IF-THEN rewards are great for the simple and short-term, but they are not so great for the complex and long-term. Great work happens not thru compliance, but when people are ENGAGED (self autonomy).

FACT: Money is a motivator. Pay people enough to take money off the table.

For far too long, we've used the traditional carrots and sticks, but the work we do has changed so much from years past. And not surprisingly, the way we motivate needs to change as well. Several companies are starting to embrace this change, but we still have a long way to go.

Daniel provided an excellent resource on his website: 4 questions to ask to see how much autonomy is in your organization.

Highlights from the conference

Here's an assortment of photos from the conference. From the funny data signs to the "Data Night Out" party, there was definitely something for everyone. Always exciting when you get 10,000+ data nerds together!

The best part about Tableau has to be the community. People are so helpful and so willing to share their tips and tricks.

Watch sessions from this year's conference

With so many people and so many sessions, it was difficult to get a chance to attend everything that I was interested in. However, all the sessions were recorded and have been made available for FREE!

So, if you a missed a session or if you didn't get a chance to attend this year's conference, you can still pick up some helpful tips & tricks. What a fantastic resource!

Be sure to check out the link below.

Tableau Conference 2016 will be in AUSTIN!

If you didn't get a chance to attend this year's conference, you'll definitely want to make it next year.

Registration is already open! It'll be a blast to see tons of data folks descending upon Austin, Texas. Hopefully I'll see you there! :D

Created By
Matt Lee
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