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How to Suppress Data in Tableau

A step-by-step guide to walk Creators through how to create calculated fields to suppress data below a threshold. Italicized texts are variable names. 

For example, there are times when working with data you may want to suppress numbers – usually when working with demographic data that is easily identifiable. 

  1. Determine the field you want to suppress
  2. Select ‘Create Calculated Field’. For these instructions, the field we will be suppressing is labeled “Completers”
  3. Enter the following formula
    1. Label the field ‘Less than 15’. 
    2. IF SUM([Completers]) > 15 THEN SUM([Completers]) ELSE 0 END
  4. Create another calculated field. Label it “Suppression Symbol” and enter the following formula:
    1. CASE str([Less than 15]) when str(0) THEN ‘DS’ ELSE str([Less than 15]) END

  5. Navigate to the sheet you want to show a suppressed value. Place the Suppression Symbol calculated field on the text card. 

     

    Critical Note:

    If you are using data suppression, it is important to make a note of that elsewhere in the dashboard – be it using dynamic zone visibility or in the information button on the dashboard.