Google Data Studio (GDS) boasts a sleek list of functions designed to ease your data analysis and visualization endeavors. One of the most handy tools in its arsenal is the DATETIME_DIFF function.
DATETIME_DIFF is a pivotal tool in the space of metrics analysis. It is specifically designed to determine the difference between two given Dates or Date & Time fields. Such a functionality allows you to precisely calculate the duration between two specific points, which in turn, facilitates refined data analysis. This function is especially useful when analyzing trends over changing timescales, customer behavior over periods, and evaluating performances.
The result obtained is typically a number or integer denoting the interval between the specified dates according to the part variable (MICROSECOND, MILLISECOND, SECOND, MINUTE, HOUR, DAY, WEEK, ISOWEEK, MONTH, QUARTER, YEAR, or ISOYEAR).
The DATETIME_DIFF function has a date part and can operate on either Date or Date & Time fields. However, it is important to note that this function isn’t available for compatibility mode date types.
To use the DATETIME_DIFF function, input the syntax as is,
DATETIME_DIFF(date_expression1, date_expression2, part)The date_expression1 and date_expression2 variables refer to the two Date or Date & Time fields. The function will fail if it finds the first expression takes place later than the second - it is crucial to respect the order. The part variable determines the unit in which the difference will be returned.
Consider keeping track of sales for a business. Two important dates would be when an order was placed and when it was shipped.
sql
DATETIME_DIFF(DateOrderPlaced, DateOrderShipped, DAY)The above example will output the number of days taken between the receipt of an order and its shipping.
Another example comparing the number of orders placed in the first quarter and the last quarter of a financial year would be:
sql
DATETIME_DIFF(DateFirstQuarter, DateLastQuarter, QUARTER)Though the DATETIME_DIFF is splendidly functional, it does have some limitations:
To make the most of the DATETIME_DIFF function, consider the following:
In summary, the DATETIME_DIFF function is an incredibly useful tool within Google Data Studio that supports comprehensive and effective data analysis.
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