Adding images to a data analysis dashboard can significantly improve the user experience and the effectiveness of the dashboard. Here are several reasons why it’s important to include images in a data analysis dashboard.

1. Enhanced User Engagement

Images capture attention more effectively than text alone. Engaging visuals can make the dashboard more appealing and encourage users to explore the data further. The structure and the navigation on all your dashboard can be improved significantly by adding images.

2. Contextual Explanation

Images can be used to provide contextual explanations. For example, a chart showing sales data for a specific product can be accompanied by an image of that product. This contextual information helps users understand the data in a real-world context.

3. Branding and Customization

Images can be used for branding purposes, incorporating logos, colour schemes, and other visual elements that represent the organisation. Customization creates a professional look, reinforcing the brand identity.

Adding Images in Looker: A Step-by-Step Guide

Imagine you want to showcase your company’s logo on your dashboard. Looker offers two straightforward methods to achieve this:

  • using an image URL

  • using an image from your computer.

Method 1: Adding an Image from a URL

1. Find Your Image:

Search for your company logo on Google. Right-click on the desired image and select “Copy image address”.

2. Edit Your Dashboard:

Access one of your Looker dashboards. Click on “Edit” and then select “Add a Markdown.”


A dropdown menu on a user interface with options to add different elements: 'Visualization,' 'Text,' 'Markdown,' and 'Button.' The 'Add' button is highlighted at the top of the menu, indicating the action to include new components on the page.


3. Insert Image URL:

Paste the copied image address into the “Body” section, replacing the [URL] part. Adjust the width and height values in the code to resize the image according to your preference.

<img src="[URL]" width="1000" height="300">

Example:


A screenshot of an 'Edit Text' interface with fields for 'Title' and 'Subtitle' and a 'Body' section containing HTML code for embedding an image from a CDN link, specifying the image's width and height attributes


Method 2: Adding an Image from Your PC

1. Convert Image to Base64:

If you have an image saved on your computer, convert it to Base64 code using websites like base64-image.de. Upload your image and copy the generated Base64 code.


A web tool interface for converting images to Base64 encoding, with bold text stating 'CONVERT YOUR IMAGES TO BASE64.' It features a dashed border box with the instructions 'DRAG & DROP IMAGES ANYWHERE' alongside a button that says 'OR CLICK HERE.


2. Insert Base64 Code:

In Looker, replace the [Base64] part with the copied code in the Markdown body. Remember to adjust the width and height attributes as needed.

<img src="[Base64]" width="1000" height="300">

Should be something like the code below.

<img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KG…" width="1000" height="300">

In my example with Astrafy logo it will appear like below when I’m adding the image with both methods.


User interface of Looker dashboard with menu items for navigation and a stylized cloud icon representing data connectivity, alongside user details for Cyril Tonaetto.


Adding a URL to the Image (Bonus Tip)

To make the logo clickable and redirect users to your website, add the following code snippet:

<div><a href="[website URL]" target="_blank"><img src="[Base64]" width="1000" height="300"></a></div>

Replace [website URL] with the URL you want. And choose method 1 or 2 for the <img> part.

Conclusion

Using images in data analysis dashboards can greatly enhance the visual appeal and user engagement. In Looker, incorporating images might seem slightly different compared to other tools like Looker Studio, Tableau, or Power BI, as it requires some coding knowledge. However, by following these methods, you can seamlessly integrate images into your Looker dashboards.

Thank you

If you enjoyed reading this article, stay tuned as we regularly publish articles on Looker and how to get the most value of this tool. Follow Astrafy on LinkedIn to be notified for the next article ;).

If you are looking for support with your Looker implementation, advice on Data Stack or Google Cloud solutions, feel free to reach out to us at sales@astrafy.io.