Did you know you can quickly identify differences in Alteryx workflows?
This saves time compared to manually reviewing and analyzing changes, allowing analysts to concentrate on process optimization rather than the tedious task of hunting for differences.
Why compare workflows?
- The tool highlights differences, reducing the risk of errors and accidental modifications in critical processes.
- Handling various versions of workflows becomes easier due to the ability to quickly detect changes between them.
- In regulated industries, such as finance or reporting, where detailed documentation of changes and processes is essential, the ability to compare and document workflow changes is crucial.
- Comparing workflows allows for experimenting with different configurations and testing how changes affect process operations.
How does it work?
When comparing Alteryx workflows, a full orange square shows that a tool has been added or removed in one of the workflows. On the other hand, if only the tool’s configuration has changed, a hashed orange square will be displayed.
This feature makes it easy to compare two workflows and quickly spot the differences using visual indicators.
In addition to the visual indicatorson the canvas, the Results window provides messages that detail the differences.
There are 3 possible outcomes for tools:
- Matched: No visual indicator
If the tools in both workflows being compared are identical, no orange indicators appear, and the Results window confirms that the configurations are the same.
- Changed: Hashed indicator
In the example below, you can see that the configuration of one of the tools has been modified. As a result, a hashed indicator shows up on the canvas.
- Missing: Full square indicator
When a tool exists in one workflow but is missing in the other, Alteryx shows a solid orange square. Additionally, differences in the incoming or outgoing data stream connections are marked by left or right arc indicators.
How to set up this function?
You don’t know how to enable compare workflows? Check out the helpful GIF we’ve prepared for you!
Comparison is based on the unique Tool ID
You can rename a tool between two versions, and the comparator will still identify it as the same tool. However, if you delete and recreate a tool (with a different ID), it will be treated as a new one, even if it has the same configuration and is placed in the same position.
To sum up, comparing Alteryx workflows allows organizations to better manage their data processes, minimize errors, and promote collaboration. This functionality not only saves time but also enhances transparency.
