Can You Keep Tableau Visualizations Private? Exploring Options and Considerations

In the landscape of data visualization, Tableau Public is a powerful tool that enables anyone to create, share, and explore data-driven insights. However, one common question that arises is whether it is possible to create visualizations that are not publicly accessible. This article delves into the limitations of Tableau Public and explores alternative options such as Tableau Desktop, Tableau Online, and Tableau Reader to ensure your visualizations remain private.

Tableau Public: Automatic Public Sharing

When using Tableau Public, all visualizations and data you create are automatically made public and accessible to anyone on the internet. This means that with Tableau Public, there is no option to keep your work private. If you intend to create visualizations that are not shared publicly, consider using Tableau Desktop or Tableau Online. These versions provide the flexibility to keep your data and visualizations private or share them with select users.

Creating Private Visualizations

If you need to privately share your visualizations with selected users, you will need to invest in Tableau Desktop and Tableau Online. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Steps for Private Visualizations

Use Tableau Desktop: This version allows you to author and create your visualizations. It is the first step in generating private visualizations. Set Up Tableau Online or Server: Once you have your visualizations ready in Tableau Desktop, you need to set up Tableau Online or a server to host these visualizations. Tableau Online provides a cloud-based solution, while a server can be hosted locally or on a private cloud for added security.

If you are using Tableau solely for personal purposes, you can skip the server setup. However, if you want a solution that allows you to control access to your visualizations, the server option is essential.

Free Use Limitations

It's important to note that the free use of Tableau with Tableau Public does not allow you to create visualizations that are private. Tableau Public is designed to be an open platform, making all visualizations accessible to the public. While the free tier offers a great way to start exploring Tableau's capabilities, it may not be suitable for those needing private data and visualizations.

Business Model and Use Cases

The business model of Tableau revolves around the idea that while there is a free tier, many users will eventually find the need for paid licenses to manage more complex requirements or achieve greater control over their data. Government institutions and NGOs often benefit greatly from Tableau Public as it is free and highly robust for publishing open information.

Individuals and Public Portfolios

For individuals looking to showcase their Tableau skills in their online portfolios, Tableau Public can be a valuable asset. You can freely share your visualizations and potentially gain exposure from both your site and Tableau Public's platform. In certain cases, your work might even be featured if it is particularly impressive.

Additionally, there is a product called Tableau Reader, which can be a good fit for specific use cases. Tableau Reader allows users to open and interact with Tableau workbooks without needing to create or edit them. This is useful for sharing visualizations with colleagues or clients who do not need the full functionality of Tableau Desktop.

Conclusion

In summary, while Tableau Public is a fantastic tool for sharing visualizations openly, it is not suitable for everyone's needs. Users who require private and controlled access to their visualizations should consider using Tableau Desktop, Tableau Online, or Tableau Reader based on their specific requirements and use cases.

Depending on your needs, you can achieve a win-win situation where you get the exposure you desire, and Tableau gets increased visibility and potential new customers. Whether you need robust, private visualizations for a business or a simple way to showcase your skills, the Tableau ecosystem offers a range of options to fit your needs.