Looker Studio Adds Conditional Formatting to Query Result Variables

Google has introduced a significant update to Looker Studio Query Result Variables (QRV) by enabling conditional formatting for QRV chips. This enhancement allows dynamic text elements in reports to change colors based on data thresholds, similar to scorecards, making data visualization more intuitive.

Query Result Variables and Conditional Formatting

Query result variables enable embedding live data directly into text elements within reports, updating automatically as data refreshes. With the new update, users can apply conditional formatting to these variables to highlight key insights visually.

How to Apply Conditional Formatting

When creating or editing a query result variable, users can click Conditional formatting and choose between two color types:

• Single color: Applies a specific color when certain criteria are met.
• Color scale: Uses a gradient of colors based on the chip’s value.

Note that conditional formatting cannot be applied from the Text Properties panel.

Single Color Conditional Formatting

To set up single color formatting:

1. Define a format rule by selecting a field and condition (e.g., GREATER THAN, LESS THAN).
2. Enter an input value or select another field.
3. Add additional OR/AND conditions if needed.
4. Specify font and background colors to apply when the rule is met.
5. Multiple format rules can be created, each with distinct color and style settings.

Color Scale Conditional Formatting

For color scale formatting:

1. Choose the metric to base the color scale on.
2. Select a color scale and optionally reverse it.
3. Define point values (minimum two, up to five) to set colors at different positions along the gradient.
4. Save the conditional formatting rules.

Managing Conditional Formatting Rules

Users can view all applied format rules by clicking X rules applied, which lists them numerically. Rules can be edited, deleted, or reordered. The precedence is given to rules with higher numerical values, meaning later rules override earlier ones if conditions overlap.

This update enhances the flexibility and visual impact of dynamic text in Looker Studio reports by allowing data-driven color changes in query result variables.