8.2. Report Layout Customization

In this lesson, we'll explore layout customization for your data dashboard. After connecting your data sources and selecting metrics and dimensions, it's time to determine the best layout for your dashboard. We'll discuss various options, including the STQA (subject, topic, question, answer) framework, and how to adjust settings in Looker Studio.

Setting Up Your Canvas

Start with a blank canvas.

When you first create a Looker Studio dashboard, you'll begin with a blank canvas. This is where you'll build your report. Familiarize yourself with the menu items and properties available.

Adjusting Theme and Layout Settings

Find what you need in the sidebar.

When you select components or charts, you'll have access to theme and layout settings in the sidebar. Here, you'll find options for layouts and theme settings. Let's start with layouts.

Adjusting View Mode Options

Customize your dashboard's appearance.

View mode determines how users consume your report. Here are some options you can adjust:

1. Header Visibility: Decide if you want the header (top part of the page) to be visible or not. You can choose from "Always Show," "Auto Hide," or "Initially Hidden." The last option is recommended for a more immersive experience.
2. Navigation: Choose how users can navigate between pages in your report. Options include "Left Navigation," "Tab," "Top Left," and "Hidden." Each choice provides a different user experience.

Creating an Immersive Experience

Guide users through your report.

For a more engaging experience, you can hide the navigation and create in-page navigation on the canvas by manually linking between pages. This allows you to selectively guide users through your report and control the way they consume information.

Respecting Report Themes

Ensure consistency in your design.