Exploring the Different File Types Supported by Tableau

Tableau is a type of data visualization and business intelligence software that allows users to create interactive dashboards, reports, and charts. It supports a variety of file types, including:

1. Tableau Workbook (.twb) – This is a Tableau file that contains the layout and design of a dashboard or report but not the data itself.
2. Tableau Packaged Workbook (.twbx) – This is a Tableau file that contains both the layout and design of a dashboard or report, as well as the data used in it. It is a “packaged” version of a .twb file that can be shared with others.
3. Tableau Data Extract (.tde) – This is a Tableau file that contains a snapshot of data from a data source, such as a database or spreadsheet. It can be used for both improve the performance of dashboards and reports by allowing them to load faster.
4. Tableau Server Data Extract (.hyper) – This is a Tableau file that contains a snapshot of data from a data source that has been optimized for use on Tableau Server. It can be used to improve both the performance of dashboards and reports that are published to Tableau Server.
5. Tableau Data Source (.tds) – This is a Tableau file that contains the connection information for a data source, such as the type of database, the server name, and the authentication details. It can be used to connect to a data source in Tableau and create dashboards and reports using the data.
6. Tableau Map Source (.tms) – This is a Tableau file that contains map layers and styles that can be used in Tableau dashboards and reports. It can be used to customize the appearance of maps in Tableau and to add custom map layers.
7. Tableau Bookmark (.tbm) – This is a Tableau file that contains a saved view of a dashboard or report. It can be used to quickly access a specific view of the data or to share a particular view with others.
8. Tableau Packaged Datasource (.tdsx) – This is a Tableau file that contains both the connection information for a data source and the data itself. It is a “packaged” version of a .tds file that can be shared with others.
9. Tableau Metadata(.tbm): This file type contains the metadata of the project, including the calculated fields, groups, hierarchies, etc.

By understanding and utilizing these file types, users can easily create, save, share, and collaborate on their work in Tableau.