Key Principles for Easy-to-Use Dashboards
1. Value of Dashboard Creation
Creating dashboards is a workflow to translate data into actionable insights rapidly. Emphasize that the goal is not just to create new dashboards but to ensure they add value by being updated, reused, and extended for maximum benefit.
2. Keep it Simple
Dashboards should answer questions, not create confusion. Aim for simplicity in design, making it easy for users to grasp information at a glance.
3. Think Like the User
Consider what users need and how familiar they are with the data. Tailor your dashboards to their expectations and provide context, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
4. Choose Visuals Wisely
Splunk offers various visualization options. Pick the right ones based on the story you want to tell. For instance, use pie charts for error distribution and gauges for simulating values like a thermostat.
Building an Effective Search Query
1. User-Centric Queries
Start by thinking about what users want from the data. Craft queries with users in mind, using field names and following best practices for quick and specific results.
2. Retrieve Data Swiftly
Make sure your search query is fast. Avoid unnecessary complexities and use field names and variables for efficient, reusable queries.
3. Writing Base Searches
Enhance your queries by writing base searches. These form the foundation for more complex searches, providing a clear starting point for data retrieval.
4. Leveraging tstats
Explore the power of tstats for optimized searches. Transitioning from traditional searches to tstats can significantly improve search performance and efficiency.
5. Adding Saved Search IDs
Save time and streamline processes by incorporating saved search IDs into your queries. This approach enhances search accuracy and enables easier tracking of specific searches.
Designing an Easy-to-Follow Layout
1. Guide Users Through a Story
Structure your dashboard to lead users through a logical flow. Initiate discussions with users to understand their priorities and organize your dashboard accordingly.
2. Use White Space Effectively
Maximize white space for an organized look. Provide context, especially for first-time users, and ensure labels are clear and not automatically generated.
3. Minimize Scrolling
Prevent user fatigue by minimizing scrolling. Place critical information upfront to reduce the need for scrolling, keeping the dashboard focused and clutter-free.
4. Detailed and Investigable Data
Effective dashboards include detailed, further investigable data at the bottom, allowing users to take action when necessary. This aligns with the common workflow for viewers and ensures a comprehensive understanding of the current state.
5. Smart Use of Color and Context
Smart use of color to communicate status and the leveraging of smart sources to add context to specific views. This enhances the visual appeal and utility of the dashboards.
Making Use of Forms, Fields, and Filters
1. Dynamic Interaction with Forms
Use Splunk’s form feature for dynamic interaction. Incorporate fields for filtering results, enhancing specificity and relevance.
2. Tokens for Specific Queries
Utilize tokens derived from user-selected fields as parameters for search queries. Tokens make search queries respond precisely to user inputs.
Adding Detail with Drill-downs
1. Dynamic Drill-downs
Enhance user interaction with drill-downs. Users can access detailed information by clicking on data points without overwhelming the dashboard.
2. Keep Dashboards Healthy
Regularly assess dashboard usage to identify and remove redundant or obsolete ones. User feedback is essential for continuous improvement.
Collaborative Dashboard Development
1. Value User Feedback
Successful dashboards are a result of collaboration. Seek user feedback regularly to adapt to their evolving needs and challenges.
2. Streamlined Troubleshooting
Keep troubleshooting efficient by maintaining a manageable number of dashboards. Simple naming conventions and periodic evaluations help prevent clutter.
In Conclusion
Creating user-friendly Splunk dashboards is a journey that combines technical know-how with a focus on the user experience. By following these simple principles and leveraging Splunk’s features, your dashboards can become powerful tools that offer meaningful insights with ease. Remember, the best dashboards don’t just show data; they guide users on a clear and intuitive journey of exploration.
