Which Tableau Training Format Is Right for Me?

Tableau is a powerful, user-friendly data analytics and visualization tool that can quickly and efficiently handle large volumes of data. Tableau knowledge is an in-demand skill across industries. This tool is relied on by data and non-data professionals because it doesn’t require any programming knowledge. When comparing types of Tableau training, there are many factors to consider. Everyone learns differently, and choosing the right training is critical to your experience.

Keep reading to learn more about the different formats of Tableau training, how they compare, and how to determine which one is right for you.

What is Tableau?

Tableau is a data visualization tool used for data analytics and business intelligence. It was designed to help individuals and organizations make better data-driven solutions. This software can simplify raw data into an accessible dashboard format that incorporates visual depictions of raw data from datasets, which can then be understood by various professionals working within a company, regardless of whether they come from a technical background. One of the main benefits of working with Tableau is that it performs fast data analysis and can create stunning visualizations based on data findings.

Tableau provides users with many helpful data analysis and visualization features, such as real-time analysis, data blending, and collaboration capabilities. It allows Data Analysts to manipulate live datasets and devote their efforts more to analysis rather than data wrangling. In addition, Tableau doesn’t require programming or technical skills, making it an accessible, effective tool for data analytics.

Read more about what Tableau is and why you should learn it.

What Can You Do with Tableau?

Tableau has a variety of professional uses. Ultimately, the more you know about Tableau, the more data-driven insights you can bring to your organization. Tableau can bring together various data sources into a single point of truth. For example, suppose you’re working with data in Microsoft Access and Excel, as well as in SQL databases and cloud-based applications such as Salesforce. In that case, Tableau can help you bring these data together with just a few mouse clicks. This provides one central source that can be used for all types of business reporting and doesn’t require you to have any coding knowledge to set up. 

Tableau also provides a way to efficiently perform ETL operations (extract, transform and load). With the help of Tableau’s automated data reshaper tool, you can transform any data you want to use into the necessary format by splitting fields, eliminating header and white space, and changing data formats. Instead of spending a whole day extracting, transforming, and loading data using apps such as Excel, you can do it in just seconds in Tableau. In addition, Tableau’s automated reporting feature allows you to easily create a report, then set it to focus on a specific dataset so that the data will automatically refresh without requiring any coding know-how or additional time commitment.

One of Tableau’s most remarkable features is its visualization capabilities. Even for those new to visually presenting data insights, Tableau comes with built-in best practices to help you present information clearly, effectively, and engagingly. This helps ensure that data is delivered to internal and external stakeholders through eye-catching and informative reports.

Training Formats for Tableau

If you want to learn Tableau, there are various training options available in the classroom and online. In-person study allows students to connect with an instructor in a traditional classroom setting. Live online Tableau classes give students access to an instructor in real-time but can be completed from the comfort of their home or office. In addition, asynchronous Tableau study is also available, such as pre-recorded videos and tutorials, for those interested in beginning to learn Tableau on their own.

In-Person Tableau Training

In-person Tableau study provides learners with many benefits. For those who thrive in the traditional classroom environment, such as extroverted learners and those interested in connecting with other classmates, in-person study provides such an opportunity. Those who enroll in classroom Tableau classes have access to computers with the software they will need already installed. They also have access to an expert instructor who can provide support and guidance and answer any questions as they arise. However, one drawback to this kind of study is that it requires an additional time and monetary commitment of commuting to and from class for each meeting.

Various in-person Tableau classes are currently available from top educational providers. Noble Desktop’s Tableau Level 1 is a beginner-friendly class that provides students with instruction on how to work with Tableau Public. By course completion, those enrolled will know how to connect to datasets, create and manipulate charts, and design attention-grabbing data visualizations. 

For those interested in a more comprehensive Tableau class, Noble Desktop’s Tableau Bootcamp and Data Analytics Certificate are great options. Students can choose to study in person in New York City or complete these classes in a live online environment. In addition, other Tableau classes are offered by other schools, such as Certstaffix Training’s Tableau Desktop: Business Intelligence and The Academy’s Tableau Basic and Advanced courses.

Live Online Tableau Training

Live online Tableau study is a great alternative to in-person coursework. Like in the classroom, live online Tableau courses allow you to connect with an expert instructor in real-time so that they can answer your questions before moving on to new concepts. Because classes can be completed from any location, such as your home, office, or even a local coffee shop, you don’t have to waste time commuting in rush-hour traffic or searching for parking each night. However, one drawback to studying in an online environment is that you must still be able to meet for regularly scheduled classes, which may mean taking off work.

If you are interested in searching for live online Tableau classes, Noble Desktop’s Classes Near Me tool can help with this search. Beginner-friendly courses are listed for those new to using Tableau, such as NYIM Training’s Tableau Level 1, Ledet Training’s Tableau 101, and Certstaffix Training’s Tableau Desktop: Basic. If you already have experience creating data visualizations but want to learn more advanced Tableau functions, courses like Ledet Training’s Tableau Bootcamp or General Assembly’s Design Your Data: Tableau Bootcamp both provide industry-relevant instruction on data analysis and visualization. 

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

Not ready to dive into a full Tableau course? Instead of committing to a rigorous bootcamp or certificate in data visualization, you may just want an overview of Tableau. If this sounds like you, the good news is that you can start learning Tableau for free online. Noble Desktop offers some excellent free online Tableau tutorials and resources that can help Tableau novices, along with more seasoned Tableau users, learn more about this popular application. Articles are available on topics like how to install Tableau Public, working with Colors in Tableau, and Creating Maps in Tableau. 

In addition to Noble Desktop’s free Tableau resources, other top educational providers also offer free, beginner-level Tableau instruction. Udemy’s free Tableau Tutorial for Beginners provides nearly two-and-a-half hours of instruction on core Tableau skills, such as joining multiple datasets, writing powerful calculations, and performing visual analytics. Coursera’s Data Visualization and Communication with Tableau teaches students how to communicate business-relevant insights in a manner accessible to audiences from non-technical backgrounds. 

Read about more free Tableau videos and online tutorials. 

Several top educational providers currently offer free online tutorials and classes. Tableau’s free training videos are available in Creator, Explorer, and Viewer. In addition, Data Camp provides a four-hour, introductory-level Tableau class that teaches topics like connecting to data sources and using the drag-and-drop interface. Analytics Vidhya also has three sections of read-only Tableau lessons: Tableau for Beginners, Tableau for Intermediate Users, and Tableau for Advanced Users.

On-Demand Classes

There is a wealth of resources available for those interested in studying this powerful data visualization tool. If you are a self-motivated learner interested in exploring Tableau basics on your own, on-demand Tableau classes are a great learning option. Unlike live online study, you can complete these courses at your own pace since they don’t meet at a regularly scheduled time. Udacity’s Data Visualization in Tableau is a free learning option that provides students with three weeks of instruction on the basics of visual design and data visualization. Other on-demand Tableau courses, such as Skillsoft’s Tableau Desktop and LinkedIn Learning’s Tableau Essential Training, are available with a platform subscription. 

Comparison of Tableau Training Formats

If you’re interested in learning Tableau, several training formats are available to help you study this versatile tool. Coursework is available in Tableau in in-person, live online, and asynchronous online environments, making it easier to find the learning style most suited to your professional needs.

For extroverted learners who thrive in the hands-on classroom learning environment, in-person study is a good option. This traditional form of learning Tableau allows you to connect with an expert instructor and a cohort of classmates who are all learning alongside you. Because you have access to the instructor, you can have your questions answered and receive guidance as new data concepts are introduced. 

Recent educational studies have explored whether classroom study is more effective than online classwork; in 2021, nearly two-thirds of students felt that they learn more in the traditional classroom environment. Another perk of in-person study is that the classroom’s computers already have Tableau installed, which can help streamline the learning process. However, one drawback to consider of in-person classes is that it requires a regular time commitment for scheduled class meetings, in addition to the time it will take to commute to and from class.

For those who still want to connect with a live instructor but don’t want to battle rush-hour traffic to meet with them in person, live online Tableau courses are a popular learning option. Live online study options still cover the same core Tableau concepts and skills and provide the same quality of training. Like in the classroom, you can ask questions in real-time and receive live answers. Unlike in-person study, however, you can work from the comfort of your own home or office space.

A third option for learning Tableau is to study this tool online in the on-demand format. This option tends to be the most affordable of the Tableau study options available. Some educators even offer free Tableau tutorials and introductory-level videos to help you begin your studies. Unlike live online classes, which meet at regularly scheduled intervals, asynchronous Tableau study is completed on your own, at your own speed. Course material is typically pre-recorded in videos and often includes articles, tutorials, and modules. 

One benefit to this form of study is that you can devote as much or as little time to a particular Tableau concept before moving on to the next one. However, one potential drawback to be mindful of is that you will not have access to an instructor to answer questions. That’s why on-demand study is more effective for those seeking an overview of Tableau versus mastery of its advanced functions. 

Is it Possible to Teach Yourself Tableau?

You might be wondering if it’s possible to learn Tableau independently. With the help of online tutorials and videos, anyone can grasp the basics of Tableau and become familiar with its interface. In addition, for those with a background in working with data or creating data visualizations, it may be easier to start learning Tableau than it would be for someone who doesn’t have prior data experience. However, if you want to learn more than fundamental Tableau concepts and skills, it can be difficult to learn this tool solely using online videos and instructions.

Another challenge to teaching yourself Tableau is deciding which online material to use. Because so many resources are available online that are devoted exclusively to Tableau, it might be hard to know which ones are accurate, up-to-date, and come from reputable educators. While video material is a good starting point in your Tableau studies, if you want to become fluent with Tableau or learn how to perform advanced functions for your job, having an instructor who is an expert on the topic is essential.

How to Decide the Best Way to Learn Tableau

Learning Tableau is easier than ever before, thanks to the different methods currently available for study. If you are new to using Tableau and are interested in a basic overview of this tool, free online Tableau courses are a good starting point. Most on-demand Tableau courses are asynchronous, meaning they can be completed at your own pace around other professional or family commitments. Because they are free and available online, students can revisit the course material as needed.

If you are interested in developing a solid working knowledge of Tableau to plug a skill gap or use this tool in your current career, free online courses likely won’t provide sufficient instruction. Instead, a more rigorous exploration of Tableau may be in order. Noble Desktop’s Tableau for Data Visualization Bootcamp is a great learning option for those who want to take their Tableau skills to the next level. This course provides hands-on Tableau training in the small group setting and can be completed in the live online format or in-person in Manhattan. Those enrolled begin by learning about the field of data visualization and receive a basic overview of Tableau Public. Then, learners will explore how to sort through, analyze, filter, and organize data to create stunning data visualizations. Although bootcamp instruction costs more than online tutorials, they provide essential, industry-relevant training that can help you advance your career.

For those interested in learning Tableau to pursue a new career or pivot to a new industry, a certificate program is likely your best match. Noble’s Data Analytics Certificate provides essential training in Tableau and other data analytic tools like Excel, Python, and SQL. This course is available live online and in-person in New York City. All learners receive expert instruction from skilled instructors, as well as one-on-one mentoring to help with information retention and job readiness. Although a certificate program is more expensive than a bootcamp, it will provide you with the necessary training to become a Business Analyst or Data Analyst.

Learn Tableau with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop provides several great Tableau learning opportunities. For those new to Tableau, Noble’s Tableau Level 1 covers core Tableau tools and skills, such as creating various charts and data visualizations. Students receive an introduction to Tableau Public, a free version of Tableau, and learn how to create and edit graphs and charts.

In addition, Noble’s Tableau Bootcamp is a program that teaches students the fundamental components of data visualization. Those enrolled explore Tableau Public’s different tools to connect to datasets, analyze, filter, and structure the data to make visualizations. By course completion, students will know how to customize, manipulate, and publish various data visualizations. This class comes with the option of a free retake for students who wish to revisit course material.

For those seeking a more rigorous learning environment for learning Tableau, Noble Desktop’s Data Analytics Certificate is a great option. In addition to providing hands-on training with Tableau in the small classroom environment, those enrolled in this certificate study also gain industry-relevant training with other data analytic skills, languages, and programs, such as SQL, Excel, and Python. Expert instructors ensure that those enrolled receive training to become Data Analysts or Business Analysts. One-on-one mentoring is provided for all students.

In addition, for those interested in learning more about Tableau, Noble’s Tableau Resources page has more than 50 articles to help you learn more about this powerful data visualization tool.