Data Studio
Definition
Google's free data visualisation tool, now called Looker Studio. Creates custom dashboards and reports from multiple data sources.
What is Data Studio?
Data Studio was Google's free tool for creating visual reports and dashboards. In October 2022, Google rebranded it as Looker Studio, but the functionality remains largely the same.
The tool lets you pull data from Google Analytics, Google Ads, spreadsheets, databases, and hundreds of other sources, then visualise it in customisable reports.
Why It Matters
Standard analytics interfaces show you data, but Data Studio (Looker Studio) lets you build reports tailored to your business questions. Instead of clicking through multiple screens, you create a single dashboard with exactly what you need.
Common Uses
- Monthly marketing reports combining multiple data sources
- Real-time dashboards for tracking KPIs
- Client reports that update automatically
- Combining website, advertising, and sales data
Key Features
Data Connectors
Connect to Google tools natively, plus hundreds of third-party sources through partner connectors.
Visualisations
Charts, tables, scorecards, maps, and more. Customise colours, styles, and layouts to match your brand.
Sharing
Share view-only or editable access. Reports update live, so recipients always see current data.
Templates
Start from templates for common use cases, then customise as needed.
The Rebrand
Google now calls this Looker Studio. If you see references to "Google Data Studio" in older articles or tutorials, they're talking about the same tool. The functionality is identical – just the name changed.