Tableau XML

Introduction

Tableau uses XML (eXtensible Markup Language) files for various purposes, such as saving workbooks, dashboards, and data source definitions. Here are some key XML files associated with Tableau:

TWB (Tableau Workbook):

File Extension: .twb

Description: This XML file contains the workbook metadata, including worksheets, dashboards, calculated fields, and connections to data sources. It does not store the data itself but references the data source.

TWBX (Tableau Packaged Workbook):

File Extension: .twbx

Description: This is a packaged workbook that includes both the workbook (TWB) and the data source. It is essentially a zip file containing a TWB file and the associated data extracts.

TDE (Tableau Data Extract):

File Extension: .tde

Description: This file format is used to store extracts of data from a data source. It is a binary file that is optimized for Tableau's performance.

TBM (Tableau Bookmark):

File Extension: .tbm

Description: This XML file is used to save a Tableau bookmark, which is a reusable, shareable snippet of a Tableau workbook.

TDEINFO:

File Extension: .tdeinfo

Description: This file accompanies TDE files and contains information about the extract, such as the schema and indexing details.

TDIMENSION, TDMEASURE, TDATTRIBUTE:

File Extensions: .tdimension, .tdmeasure, .tdattribute

Description: These XML files are generated when you export a single field from Tableau as a custom SQL calculation.

TBM(Tableau Bookmark):

File Extension: .tbm

Description: This XML file is used to save a Tableau bookmark, which is a reusable, shareable snippet of a Tableau workbook.

HYPER (Tableau Hyper Data Extract):

File Extension: .hyper

Description: Starting from Tableau 10.5, Hyper is the default file format for Tableau Data Extracts. It's a highly compressed and efficient columnar store format for analytics.

These files can be opened and viewed using a text editor, but modifying them manually is not recommended unless you have a good understanding of the Tableau XML structure. The XML files store the configuration and metadata information of your Tableau work, and making incorrect changes could lead to corruption or data loss.

Applications

Tableau XML files are primarily used for storing metadata, configurations, and definitions related to Tableau workbooks, dashboards, data sources, and other components. Here are some common uses for Tableau XML files:

1. Workbook Storage (TWB):

• Use: TWB files store the metadata and configuration of a Tableau workbook. They include information about worksheets, dashboards, calculated fields, and connections to data sources.
• Scenario: When you save a Tableau workbook without extracting data, it is saved as a TWB file.

2. Packaged Workbooks (TWBX):

• Use: TWBX files are packaged workbooks that include both the workbook (TWB) and the associated data source. They are used for sharing Tableau workbooks with others while preserving the data.
• Scenario: When you want to share a Tableau workbook and its data with others, you can save it as a TWBX file.

3. Data Extract Storage (TDE):

• Use: TDE files store data extracts created in Tableau. They are binary files optimized for Tableau's performance.
• Scenario: When you create a data extract in Tableau, it is saved as a TDE file.

4. Tableau Bookmarks (TBM):

• Use: TBM files store Tableau bookmarks, which are reusable, shareable snippets of a Tableau workbook.
• Scenario: When you want to save and share a specific view or configuration of a Tableau workbook, you can use a TBM file.

5. Data Extract Information (TDEINFO):

• Use: TDEINFO files accompany TDE files and contain additional information about the extract, such as schema and indexing details.
• Scenario: They are used to provide supplementary information about the associated TDE file.

6. Custom SQL Calculations (TDIMENSION, TDMEASURE, TDATTRIBUTE):

• Use: These XML files are generated when you export a single field from Tableau as a custom SQL calculation.
• Scenario: When you create a custom SQL calculation in Tableau, these files may be generated to store information about the calculation.

7. Tableau Hyper Data Extracts (HYPER):

• Use: HYPER files are the default file format for Tableau Data Extracts (starting from Tableau 10.5). They are highly compressed and efficient columnar store formats for analytics.
• Scenario: When you create a data extract in newer versions of Tableau, it is saved as a HYPER file.

These XML files play a crucial role in storing and organizing the elements of Tableau workbooks and data extracts, facilitating data analysis and visualization. They are essential for sharing, collaboration, and maintaining the integrity of Tableau projects.

Advantages

Tableau XML, specifically related to Tableau workbooks and data sources, provides a way to interact with and manipulate Tableau files programmatically. Here are some advantages of using Tableau XML:

• Automation and Scripting:

XML files can be manipulated using scripts and automation tools. This is particularly useful for repetitive tasks, such as updating data connections or modifying workbook settings across multiple Tableau files.

• Version Control:

XML files can be versioned using version control systems like Git. This allows teams to track changes made to Tableau workbooks and data sources over time, facilitating collaboration and ensuring that everyone is working with the latest version.

• Customization:

Tableau XML allows for customization of workbooks and data sources beyond the capabilities of the Tableau user interface. This can include fine-tuning parameters, adjusting formatting, or implementing specific business logic not easily achieved through the standard Tableau interface.

• Integration with Other Systems:

XML can be used to integrate Tableau files with other systems and applications. This is particularly relevant when Tableau is part of a larger data ecosystem, and data or metadata needs to be exchanged between Tableau and other tools.

• Bulk Updates:

XML provides a way to make bulk updates to multiple Tableau files simultaneously. This is beneficial for managing large-scale Tableau deployments where changes need to be propagated across numerous workbooks or data sources.

• Scripted Deployment:

XML manipulation allows for scripted deployment of Tableau assets. This is useful for automating the deployment process, ensuring consistency, and reducing the likelihood of human errors during deployment.

Disadvantages

While Tableau XML provides several advantages, there are also some potential disadvantages and considerations associated with directly manipulating XML files:

• Complexity:

Working with XML directly requires a good understanding of the Tableau XML schema and structure. The complexity can increase with the sophistication of the workbook or data source, making it challenging for users who are not familiar with XML.

• Error-Prone:

Manually editing XML files introduces the risk of errors, typos, or syntax mistakes. A small mistake in the XML structure can lead to corrupted Tableau files, making it important to approach XML manipulation with caution.

• Lack of Validation:

Unlike changes made through the Tableau user interface or supported APIs, direct XML manipulation may bypass certain validation processes. This means that changes made in the XML might not be thoroughly validated for compatibility, potentially leading to unexpected behaviour or issues.

• Limited Documentation:

While Tableau provides documentation on its XML structure, it might not cover every detail or corner case. Users may find themselves relying on trial and error or community support for more complex scenarios.

• Version Compatibility:

Tableau XML structure may evolve with new software releases. Directly manipulating XML files created with one version of Tableau in a different version may result in compatibility issues or unexpected behaviour.

• No Undo Functionality:

Unlike the Tableau user interface, which often provides undo functionality, changes made directly to XML files may not have an easy undo mechanism. Users should be cautious and consider creating backups before making extensive modifications.

• Security Risks:

Direct XML manipulation could potentially introduce security risks if not done securely. For example, exposing sensitive information in the XML or making incorrect changes to permissions could compromise the security of Tableau workbooks and data sources.

• Not User-Friendly:

For users who are not comfortable with XML or prefer a user-friendly interface, direct manipulation of XML files may be a less accessible or less intuitive method of making changes to Tableau assets.

While Tableau XML can be a powerful tool for advanced users and automation scenarios, it's essential to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages. In many cases, Tableau's provided tools, APIs, and user interface may offer safer and more user-friendly alternatives for achieving specific tasks. Users should choose the method that best aligns with their expertise and the complexity of the task at hand.

Conclusion

In short, Tableau XML offers powerful automation and customization capabilities, enabling users to script changes, version control, and perform bulk updates. However, its complexity, error-prone nature, and potential lack of validation make it less user-friendly and riskier compared to using Tableau's standard tools and interfaces. Users should carefully consider their expertise, task complexity, and the availability of alternative methods before opting for direct XML manipulation.