How to refresh data source fields in Bold BI when the underlying dataset schema changes via run button?
There are chances for schema updates such as, adding/deleting new fields (a.k.a. columns), renaming existing fields, in source data (underlying dataset) in timely manner. These changes need to be kept synchronized with the published data source and any associated dashboards in Bold BI. This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to address this need and overcome challenges that you may encounter.
Scenario
Consider that you have a Microsoft SQL Server database table named USERDETAILS connected to Bold BI.
USERDETAILS table view in database management IDE
Then you have dragged and dropped that table in the query designer page and saved the data source.
Adding USERDETAILS table in Bold BI query designer page
Finally, you have configured this data into the widget and published the dashboard.
Data configured grid widget in Bold BI dashboard
Handling Column Deletion or Renaming Changes
If you have deleted column(s) from the connected data source table in the database management console, you need to follow these steps:
Database table view with no username column
Edit the saved data source, which will reflect the changes made in the database management console.
However, the changes will not appear in the data preview pane, resulting an invalid column name error
Query designer page showing Invalid column error message due to missing column in underlying dataset
To resolve this error, click Run on the query designer toolbar and save. This will reflect the changes in the data source
Query designer page highlighting run action
Now, the dashboard will be rendered without the column(s) that was deleted (username) in the database management console.
Data configured grid widget without username column
Similarly, when you rename column(s) in the database, the published data source and dashboard will reflect the renamed column(s) after clicking Run on the query designer toolbar.
Handling New Column Changes
If you have added column(s) to the connected data source table in the database management console, follow these steps:
Edit the saved data source, which will reflect the column(s) added in the table.
However, the new column(s) will not appear in the data preview pane.
Query designer page with newly added column in disabled state
To resolve this issue, click Run on the query designer toolbar and save.
Now, you will see the added column(s) in the data source.
Query designer page with newly added column enabled
Points To Remember
Make sure to update the published data sources whenever making schema updates to the underlying database.
Always click Run on the query designer toolbar to reflect any changes made to the database and save.
Be cautious when renaming or deleting columns as it can affect the published data source and dashboards.
By following the points to remember and being cautious of any schema related changes made to the database, you can ensure that your published data source and dashboards are accurately reflecting the underlying dataset updates.
Related Links
How to modify Specific column or table name via API?
How to refresh data source fields in Bold BI when the underlying dataset schema changes via API?
