The Data Upload Tool accepts two types of datasets, Flat and Regular, and you will need to choose which one to use based on your needs/which one works for you keeping in mind all pros and cons:
Feature | Datasets prepared in a single worksheet (Aka "Flat") | Datasets prepared in Knoema’s house style (Aka "Regular"/"KNox") |
Description | A flat dataset is equivalent to a pivot table. All data are in one worksheet. Details and an example are here. |
Data and metadata are spread across multiple Excel worksheets in a specific format. Details and an example are here. |
File preparation | Typically simpler and faster to prepare because there is only one tab. | Requires a special file format that contains at least 3 sheets to define dataset structure. With practice this becomes more intuitive! |
Uploading process | We strongly recommend using the Custom upload settings following upload in the UI to verify all metadata. | All metadata should be clearly labeled in the file, so custom upload settings are not necessary. |
Dimension members order | Dimension members are always alphabetized | Can be ordered. |
Time dimension | Not required | Required |
Aggregations on-the-fly |
Available. On-the-fly aggregation options, e.g., aggregations across dimensions and averages and counts. |
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Transformations |
Transformations may be available. Note: Please check with your system administrator to see if transformations are applied to your system. |
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Display non-numeric data |
Available. Able to display details and non-numeric data in maps, geo playground, and in grid form. |
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Random selection | - | Available |
Data Alerts | - | Available |