What is the difference between a static dashboard and an interactive dashboard?

Let’s compare the two main types of dashboards: static and interactive. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right one for your specific needs. 

  Static Dashboard  Interactive Dashboard 
Description  A snapshot of data at a specific point in time, presented as a fixed visual representation such as a chart, graph, or table.  Allows users to engage with the data, explore it, and make changes to the visualization in real time. Users can filter, sort, and drill down into the data to uncover insights and patterns. 
Example  Monthly sales report that displays total revenue, average sale, and the number of products sold during the past month.  Sales report with interactive filters by region, product category, or customer segment. 
Pros  Easy to create and share with others. Can be useful for a quick overview of key metrics. Typically requires less time and resources to develop.  Encourages exploration and data-driven decision-making. Highly customizable to suit different users’ needs. Can be updated automatically with real-time data. 
Cons  Limited in terms of exploring data. May require manual updates. Lacks user engagement and interactivity.  May require more development time and resources. Can be complex for some users to navigate. Might need additional training for users to fully utilize. 

 

In summary, a static dashboard provides a fixed view of your data, while an interactive dashboard allows users to engage with the data and explore it further. Depending on your specific requirements, you might find one type more suitable than the other. If you need a simple, easy-to-share overview of your key metrics, a static dashboard could be the way to go. However, if you want to empower your team to dive deeper into the data and make data-driven decisions, an interactive dashboard might be the better choice.


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