The OTDI Data Visualization team has partnered with the Office of Strategic Enrollment Management (OSEM) to launch the first enterprise student dataset in Tableau Server, a major step toward improving access to accurate, trusted student data across Ohio State.
This new resource makes it easier than ever for report developers and analysts to connect to certified data and build reports without extra software or specialized query skills. It’s a smoother, smarter way for Ohio State report developers to work with student data.
Who benefits?
Anyone who works with student data and uses Tableau will find this new dataset a game‑changer.
It’s especially helpful for users who:
- Don’t have Structured Query Language (SQL) coding skills
- Don’t have (or need) a Tableau Desktop license
- Need reliable, consistently defined data directly in Tableau Server
The dataset provides “15th day” student census data, with one row per student per term based on primary program and plan. This setup allows for more accurate and aligned analysis of student enrollment and demographics.
Why this matters
Before this dataset existed, report developers had to:
- Write their own SQL queries
- Build their own data sources
- Purchase Tableau Desktop
Now, all that friction is gone.
With the new enterprise dataset:
- SQL knowledge is no longer required
- A Tableau Desktop license isn’t needed
- Data definitions are built in, making it easier to understand field names through “Data Details” in Tableau Server
- Everyone uses the same definitions, improving consistency across reports
But doesn’t RAE already have student data?
Yes, and it’s still valuable. But it comes with barriers.
Using student data in the Reporting and Analytics Environment (RAE) requires:
- Installing specialized tools
- Knowing how to write SQL
- Interpreting column names that may change over time
In contrast, the new Tableau dataset removes that guesswork. The data is:
- Validated
- Defined by the business
- Approved by data stewards
- Certified in Tableau Server
- Updated every morning
It is a single, trusted source of truth.
How does a report developer access this new dataset?
To request access, simply complete the Enterprise Data for Analytics form in ServiceNow (login required).
You'll be asked to:
- Explain your use case
- Choose the correct domain (Student: Records, Enrollment, Curriculum: Reporting)
Is there required training?
Applicants must:
- Be current on Institutional Data Policy (IDP) training (completed within the last 12 months)
- Obtain manager and data steward approval (handled automatically in the ServiceNow workflow)
Questions?
For questions about the student dataset, email the Enrollment Analytics, Research and Insights (EARI) team.
For help using Tableau at Ohio State, email the OTDI Data Visualization team.