# Datasets

A **dataset** is a structured collection of data used for analysis and visualization. In **ViewZen Analytics**, a dataset can correspond to a **database table, a database view, or a database query**.

* Each **column** in a dataset represents a specific variable within the data.
* Each **row** contains a collection of variables that form a single data record.

A dataset in ViewZen Analytics can source its data from

* **ViewZen Analytics Store** - A dataset may get created in either a PostgreSQL or an ElasticSearch Store when data is imported via ViewZen Pipelines. ViewZen Pipelines may connect to any relational database such as MySQL etc. or a business application or a spreadsheet like Google sheet or excel.
* **Live Databases** - It can connect directly to **Databases** (SQL, NoSQL, Cloud-based databases) post registration. The registration process allows you to associate the dataset to a table or view or a query. 

In ViewZen Analytics, a dashboard can be created using multiple different datasets each residing in a different database. This makes ViewZen Analytics a very powerful platform capable of providing integrated analytics from multiple sources.

### Adding a Dataset

A dataset can be added to a dashboard in the one of the following ways

1. **While** [**creating a new dashboard**](https://viewzenlabsug.gitbook.io/userguides/viewzen-analytics/dashboard/create-a-dashboard) - You can select one or more datasets at the time of creating a new dashboard.
2. **From within the dashboard** - New datasets can be added from within a dashboard by opening the dashboard in the edit more i.e. Designer option. This following steps can be followed to add additional datasets to a dashboard
   1. **Navigate to the Dashboard**: Locate the dashboard to which you want to add additional datasets. Open the dashboard in Edit mode.
   2. **Click on "Add dataset" Icon** - The "**Add Dataset**" icon is the first icon located at the right end of the designer toolbar.
   3. **Select Additional datasets** - Select additional datasets from the "**Add Dataset**" list and confirm.

<figure><img src="https://2529980633-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FK8cCKBpIeUsWEwOw3Fbj%2Fuploads%2FRAmWTKNMz7IuyR8iqQ4Y%2Fadddataset.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=5b164626-fbf6-4254-a8fc-4bae209dcb20" alt=""><figcaption><p>Add dataset</p></figcaption></figure>

### Fields of a added dataset

The fields section lists the following

1. **Dataset columns** - Dataset wise-columns present in each dataset that is added to the dashboard and their types.
2. **Expressions** - Expressions created on added datasets.
3. **Context fields** - If a context field is mapped to an added dataset field, the context field will be listed.
4. **Formuale** - Any formula created on the added dataset will be listed.


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