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In an era where digital transformation is the name of the game, many agencies still find themselves trapped in outdated,manual processes that consume valuable time and increase the risk of human error.Despite rapid advancements in automation and integration tools,agencies continue to rely on analysts to download data,format spreadsheets, kick off jobs,and manage workflows manually.This inefficiency not only slows down operations but also exposes businesses to compliance risks,data discrepancies,and scalability challenges.The Inefficiency of Manual Data Handling The process of manually extracting and manipulating data is fraught with risk.Analysts often spend hours:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Downloading reports from multiple platforms (Google Ads,Facebook Ads, CRM systems, etc.) </li><li>Formatting data in Excel or Google Sheets </li><li>Merging data from various sources </li><li>Running scripts or kicking off batch jobs manually</li></ul></li></ul>These tasks may seem routine, but they introduce several problems:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Errors and inconsistencies: Manual data entry is prone to mistakes, leading to unreliable reports and faulty decision-making. </li><li>Lack of real-time insights: By the time data is processed,it may already be outdated, hindering agility in campaign adjustments. </li><li>Scalability issues: As an agency grows, relying on manual processes becomes unsustainable. </li><li>Employee burnout: Analysts and data teams spend excessive time on mundane tasks rather than focusing on strategy and insights. </li><li>Security and Compliance Risks: Handling data manually increases exposure to breaches,unauthorized access,and regulatory non-compliance.</li></ul></li></ul>The Cost of Staying Manual Beyond the operational inefficiencies,maintaining manual processes has hidden financial and strategic costs.Agencies that fail to automate suffer from:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Increased labor costs: More time spent on repetitive tasks means more payroll spent on non-value-added work. </li><li>Lost revenue opportunities: Slow reporting and poor data quality can lead to missed insights and revenue potential. </li><li>Competitive disadvantage: Competitors leveraging automation can move faster,optimize campaigns more effectively,and provide superior client service.</li></ul></li></ul>The Solution: Automation &amp; API Integration <ol><li>API Integrations for Direct Data Access </li><li>Third-Party Connectors (Supermetrics, Fivetran, Zapier) For agencies without the resources to develop custom API solutions,third-party connectors simplify the process.Tools like:</li></ol><ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Supermetrics (automates data pulls from multiple platforms into Google Sheets, BigQuery, or Data Studio) </li><li>Fivetran (automates ELT processes to bring data into a warehouse)</li><li>Zapier (triggers workflows between applications without coding) These tools allow non-technical users to automate data workflows without extensive development work.</li></ul></li></ul>3. Community Connectors &amp; Microsoft’s Third-Party Libraries For agencies that don’t have in-house developers,no-code and low-code platforms provide user-friendly automation solutions.Tools like Airtable, Make (formerly Integromat),and Alteryx allow users to:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Build automated workflows without extensive coding knowledge </li><li>Integrate multiple data sources seamlessly </li><li>Reduce the reliance on IT teams for routine automation tasks</li></ul></li></ul>The Benefits of AutomationBy replacing manual processes with automation, digital agencies can:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li style="">Improve efficiency – Reduce the time spent on repetitive data tasks</li><li style="">Enhance data accuracy – Eliminate human errors</li><li style="">Scale effortlessly – Handle growing data needs without increasing manual effort</li><li style="">Increase employee productivity – Free up analysts to focus on strategy and insights</li><li style="">Improve client satisfaction – Provide faster, more accurate reporting and campaign optimizations</li><li style="">Enhance security &amp; compliance – Reduce risk by automating sensitive data handling </li></ul></li></ul>Implementation: Where to Start?Transitioning from manual to automated processes may seem overwhelming,but a structured approach can make the shift smoother:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Audit Existing Workflows: Identify repetitive manual processes, bottlenecks, and inefficiencies. </li><li>Define Automation Priorities: Start with the most time-consuming and error-prone tasks. </li><li>Select the Right Tools: Choose between API integrations, third-party connectors, or low-code platforms based on your agency’s needs. </li><li>Test &amp; Optimize: Implement automation in phases,test for accuracy, and refine processes over time. </li><li>Train &amp; Upskill Teams: Ensure employees are equipped to leverage automation tools effectively.</li></ol></li></ol>Final ThoughtsAutomation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for digital agencies looking to stay competitive.By leveraging APIs, third-party connectors,and automation tools,agencies can shift from time-consuming, error-prone manual processes to efficient,scalable workflows.The result? More time spent on strategy, better data integrity, improved client satisfaction, and a stronger bottom line.It’s time for digital agencies to move beyond spreadsheets and manual downloads—automation is the future. Agencies that fail to adapt risk falling behind, while those that embrace automation will be the ones leading the industry forward.<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>Based in Burbank,California since 2015,Vimware is dedicated to supporting small to midsize businesses and agencies with their behind-the-scenes IT needs.As a Managed Service Provider (MSP),we offer a range of services including cloud solutions, custom programming, mobile app development, marketing dashboards, and strategic IT consulting.Our goal is to ensure your technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growing your business.<a data-mce-href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Contact us</a> to learn how we can assist in optimizing your IT operations.

The Hidden IT Challenge in Digital Agencies: The Manual Data Bottleneck

Looker Studio (formerly Google Data Studio) is a powerful tool for visualizing business data, but the experience greatly depends on the connectors used to pull data from external sources. Two popular options are SuperMetrics and Community Connectors. In this article, we’ll compare them based on connectors, pricing, ease of use, and stability to help you decide which is best for your needs.<h3>1. Connectors: Variety &amp; Coverage</h3>SuperMetrics✅ Wide range of supported platforms – Over 100+ data sources, including Google Ads, Facebook Ads, LinkedIn, HubSpot, and Amazon. &nbsp; ✅ Pre-built connectors for many advertising, SEO, and social media platforms. ✅ Seamless integration with Google Sheets, BigQuery, and Excel for additional flexibility.Community Connectors✅ Built by third-party developers and often free. ✅ Cover niche platforms that SuperMetrics may not support. ✅Available via Google’s official Community Connector gallery. ❌Quality varies – Some connectors may not be actively maintained or optimized.Winner: Community Connectors – Ideal for those on a budget, but with some trade-offs in quality and support.<h3>2. Pricing: Cost Considerations</h3>&nbsp; &nbsp; SuperMetrics💰 Paid subscription – Pricing starts at $39/month for a single connector and scales up based on data sources and users. 💰 Enterprise plans available for agencies and large teams and can easily grow to tens of thousands.&nbsp;<h3>Community Connectors</h3>💰Mostly free, but some premium connectors charge fees. &nbsp; 💰Cost-effective for basic needs but may lack advanced features.Winner: Community Connectors – Ideal for those on a budget, but with some trade-offs in quality and support.<h3>3. Ease of Use: Setup &amp; User Experience</h3>SuperMetrics✅ Easy setup with step-by-step authentication. ✅ Intuitive UI for configuring data sources and metrics. ✅ Reliable customer support and documentation.<h3>Community Connectors</h3>❌ Varies by provider – Some connectors work well, while others break frequently. ❌ Limited support if a connector stops working. ✅ Good for basic or one-time reports, but may not be ideal for mission-critical dashboards.Winner: SuperMetrics – More stable for professional use cases. Final Verdict: Which One Should You Use?<table border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; float: left;" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Feature</td><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; SuperMetrics&nbsp; </td><td style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Community Connectors</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">Connectors</td><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">✅ Extensive (100+ sources)</td><td style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">⚠️ Varies by developer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">Pricing</td><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">❌ Paid plans start at $39/month</td><td style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;✅ Mostly free&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">Ease of Use</td><td style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3319%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">✅ Simple setup, great UI</td><td style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3362%; border-color: #000000; border-style: solid; text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; ⚠️Setup complexity varies&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Who Should Choose SuperMetrics?</h3>✔ Marketing agencies, enterprises, and data-heavy users needing multiple integrations. ✔ Businesses that require reliable, automated data updates. ✔ Users willing to pay for stability, ease of use, and premium support.<h3>Who Should Choose Community Connectors?</h3>✔ Small businesses or freelancers who need basic reporting at minimal cost. ✔ Users who are comfortable troubleshooting or maintaining third-party connectors. ✔ Anyone working with niche platforms not covered by SuperMetrics.<h3>Conclusion</h3> Both SuperMetrics and Community Connectors have their strengths and weaknesses. If cost is a priority, Community Connectors are a great starting point, but for long-term reliability and ease of use, SuperMetrics is the superior option. Carefully consider your reporting needs and budget before making a decision!&nbsp;Need help choosing the right connector for your business? Let us know.<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>Based in Burbank, California since 2015, Vimware is dedicated to supporting small to midsize businesses and agencies with their behind-the-scenes IT needs. As a Managed Service Provider (MSP), we offer a range of services including cloud solutions, custom programming, mobile app development, marketing dashboards, and strategic IT consulting. Our goal is to ensure your technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growing your business.<a data-mce-href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary"> Contact us</a> to learn how we can assist in optimizing your IT operations.

SuperMetrics vs. Community Connectors in Looker Studio: A Comparison

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As Microsoft plans to shut down Skype in early May 2025, many users are wondering what their next steps should be.The good news?The simplest and most seamless option is to migrate to Microsoft Teams.And the best part? It’s free and effortless for most users.Why Microsoft Teams? Microsoft Teams has become the go-to platform for communication, offering reliable chat and video call functionality.The free version is perfect for most people,supporting chat and meetings up to an hour in length.It’s user-friendly and designed to provide a smooth transition from Skype.How the Transition Works When you download and install the free version of Microsoft Teams, your Skype messages and contacts will automatically migrate.You won’t need to manually transfer anything – Microsoft handles it all for you.Additionally, if someone tries to reach you on Skype,their message will be directed to your Teams account.It’s like you never skipped a beat!Even better, you can keep using your old Skype name as your default in Teams.This makes it even easier for your contacts to find you without any confusion.A Few Things to Keep in Mind While this transition is seamless for most users,it’s important to note that some offshore countries are experiencing a slower rollout of the message and contact migration feature.Microsoft seems to be gradually introducing this functionality globally,so if you don’t see your messages right away,a little patience may be needed.My Experience As someone who has used Skype almost daily for the past 20 years, I can confidently say that the transition to Microsoft Teams was painless. All my conversations, contacts, and familiar routines carried over effortlessly.Using Teams for Both Work and Personal Accounts If you have a work Teams account, you can conveniently manage both your personal and professional chats using the same app The mobile and desktop versions of Teams support multiple accounts, but to ensure this works smoothly,make sure you download the latest version of Teams from Microsoft’s website.How to Get Started<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Download Microsoft Teams: Visit the official Microsoft website to download the free version. </li><li>Sign In: Use your existing Skype or Microsoft account to log in. </li><li>Automatic Migration: Your contacts and chat history will appear automatically if your region supports it.</li><li>Enjoy your familiar conversations and stay connected without interruption.</li></ol></li></ol>By making the switch now, you can ensure a hassle-free transition before Skype officially retires. Microsoft Teams offers a familiar, yet enhanced experience, making it the best choice for your messaging and video calling needs.<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>Based in Burbank,California since 2015,Vimware is dedicated to supporting small to midsize businesses and agencies with their behind-the-scenes IT needs.As a Managed Service Provider (MSP),we offer a range of services including cloud solutions, custom programming,mobile app development, marketing dashboards, and strategic IT consulting.Our goal is to ensure your technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growing your business.<a data-mce-href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Contact us </a>to learn how we can assist in optimizing your IT operations.

Moving from Skype to Microsoft Teams: An Easy Transition

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Looker Studio (formerly Google Data Studio) is a powerful tool for creating interactive and shareable dashboards.It allows businesses,analysts,and marketers to visualize data from multiple sources seamlessly.While many users are familiar with its basic capabilities,there are several lesser-known features and tricks that can significantly enhance the experience.Here are ten things most people don’t know about Looker Studio:1. You Can Use Regular Expressions (REGEX) for Advanced FilteringLooker Studio allows users to apply Regular Expressions (REGEX) in filters and calculated fields,making it possible to manipulate data in ways that standard filters can’t.This is incredibly useful for:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Extracting or modifying text</li><li>Creating complex conditions for filtering</li><li>Grouping data dynamically</li></ul></li></ul>2. Blending Data Sources is More Powerful Than You ThinkMost users know they can blend data from multiple sources in Looker Studio,but few realize the full power of cross-database joins. • You can blend Google Sheets data with Google Analytics or BigQuery with Facebook Ads for deeper insights.• Looker Studio now supports LEFT,RIGHT,INNER, and FULL OUTER joins, making data combinations more flexible.For instance,you can blend a CRM dataset with Google Ads to track leads and conversions in one dashboard.3. Custom SQL Queries Allow Direct Database ControlIf you’re using BigQuery,MySQL,or PostgreSQL,you can write custom SQL queries directly within Looker Studio.This enables you to:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li style="">Optimize performance by pre-aggregating data before visualization</li><li style="">Use complex calculations that are not natively supported</li><li style="">Improve query efficiency instead of relying on calculated fields in the dashboard</li></ul></li></ul>Example:SELECT user_id, COUNT(*) AS sessions&nbsp;FROM my_table&nbsp;WHERE event_type = 'page_view'&nbsp;GROUP BY user_idThis query returns the number of page views per user,reducing the need for additional processing in Looker Studio.4. Google Cloud Functions Can Be Used to Extend Looker StudioLooker Studio doesn’t support Python or other scripting languages,but you can leverage Google Cloud Functions to preprocess or enrich data before bringing it into your dashboard.<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Use Cloud Functions to fetch real-time data from APIs.</li><li>Process large datasets in the cloud before sending to Looker Studio.</li><li>Automate data transformations that would be difficult in Looker Studio alone.</li></ul></li></ul>For example,if you need real-time stock prices,you can use a Cloud Function to fetch data from an API and store it in Google Sheets or BigQuery,then connect Looker Studio to that source.5. You Can Schedule Reports &amp; Automate Delivery Many users don’t realize they can automate report delivery via email.This feature is useful for sending regular updates to teams or clients.<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li style="">Schedule reports to be sent daily,weekly,or monthly.</li><li style="">Export reports as PDFs and send them via email.</li><li style="">Customize the email subject and body for better communication.</li></ul></li></ul>To enable this, simply go to File &gt; Schedule Email Delivery,select recipients,and set the frequency.6. You Can Embed Looker Studio Dashboards in Websites &amp; AppsLooker Studio reports aren’t limited to internal use.You can embed them on websites,intranets,or even inside applications using an iframe.&lt;iframe width="600" height="450" src="https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/your-report-id" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;This is great for:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Sharing live dashboards with clients.</li><li>Embedding reports inside an internal analytics portal.</li><li>Making dashboards accessible without requiring Google accounts.</li></ol></li></ol>7. You Can Use Google Apps Script to Automate Data UpdatesGoogle Apps Script allows you to interact with Looker Studio programmatically.You can use it to:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Automate data extraction and transformation before importing to Looker Studio.</li><li>Trigger data refreshes dynamically.</li><li>Fetch data from APIs and store it in Google Sheets. </li></ul></li></ul>For example, you can write a script to pull Twitter mentions daily and save them in Google Sheets, which Looker Studio can then visualize.8. Looker Studio Supports Community Connectors for Non-Google Data SourcesLooker Studio isn’t limited to Google products! Thanks to Community Connectors, you can connect to over 600+ data sources, including:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Facebook Ads,LinkedIn Ads,Twitter,Amazon Ads</li><li>Stripe,PayPal,QuickBooks,Salesforce</li><li>SEMrush,Ahrefs,Moz for SEO analytics</li></ul></li></ul>These connectors are often created by third parties,so some may require paid<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">subscriptions,but they extend Looker Studio’s capabilities beyond what most people expect.9. Conditional Formatting Makes Reports More InteractiveFew users take advantage of conditional formatting,which can highlight specific data points based on predefined conditions.<ul><li style="">Color-code KPIs based on performance (e.g., turn red when below target).</li><li style="">Highlight trends in financial reports.</li><li style="">Make anomalies in data stand out visually.</li></ul>To enable it, go to Table Properties &gt; Style &gt; Conditional Formatting and set up rules like:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li style="">Green if Revenue &gt; $100,000</li><li style="">Red if Click-Through Rate (CTR) &lt; 2%</li></ul></li></ul>10. The Performance Profiler Can Speed Up Your DashboardLooker Studio dashboards can slow down when dealing with large datasets,but most users don’t know about the Performance Profiler tool.<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li style="">It helps diagnose slow-loading components.</li><li style="">Identifies inefficient queries or filters.</li><li style="">Suggests optimizations to improve speed.</li></ul></li></ul>To access it, go to Resource &gt; Manage Added Data Sources &gt; View Performance Profiler and analyze the report to optimize your dashboard.Final ThoughtsLooker Studio is much more than a simple dashboard tool.With advanced filtering,automation,SQL queries,embedding capabilities, and performance optimization,it can be a powerful business intelligence solution for any organization.By leveraging these 10 lesser-known features, you can unlock new insights,save time,and create more efficient dashboards that offer real value.Have you discovered any other hidden gems in Looker Studio? Share them in the comments below!<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>Based in Burbank,California since 2015,Vimware is dedicated to supporting small to midsize businesses and agencies with their behind-the-scenes IT needs.As a Managed Service Provider (MSP), we offer a range of services including cloud solutions,custom programming,mobile app development, marketing dashboards, and strategic IT consulting.Our goal is to ensure your technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently,allowing you to focus on growing your business.<a data-mce-href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us">Contact us</a> to learn how we can assist in optimizing your IT operations.

10 Things Most People Don’t Know About Looker Studio

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In the fast-paced world of digital agencies,delivering flawless websites and applications is critical.However, many agencies struggle with inconsistent QA and testing,leading to buggy launches and poor user experiences.This issue stems from a lack of rigorous testing protocols, insufficient internal QA staff,and an over-reliance on developers to test their own work.The impact? Sluggish mobile sites,inaccessible pages,and frustrated users who abandon digital products.The Issue: Why QA &amp; Testing Often Falls ShortMany digital agencies cut corners on quality assurance due to tight deadlines,budget constraints,or a belief that developers can effectively test their own work.This often results in:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Limited cross-browser, cross-device, and cross-OS testing – A site may look perfect in Chrome but break in Safari or struggle on Android devices.</li><li>Neglecting accessibility – Users with disabilities may face obstacles due to a lack of WCAG-compliant design and testing. </li><li>Overlooking performance testing – Slow-loading pages, particularly on mobile, drive users away and hurt SEO rankings. </li><li>Skipping Lighthouse audits – Core Web Vitals assessments are essential for ensuring smooth performance, yet many agencies ignore them.</li></ul></li></ul>Testing only on the latest Apple and Android devices – Many companies fail to test on older devices and operating systems.If a website has a global reach,it must be tested on a variety of older devices and OS versions to ensure accessibility for all users.Without dedicated QA personnel,developers are left to test their own work—an approach prone to bias and oversights.As a result, projects go live with critical bugs that could have been caught earlier.The Impact: Buggy Launches &amp; Poor User ExperiencesWhen QA is inconsistent or absent,the consequences are severe:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Higher bounce rates – Users abandon sites that load slowly or don’t function correctly. </li><li>Brand reputation damage – A buggy site reflects poorly on the agency and its clients. </li><li>Increased post-launch fixes – Debugging after deployment is costly and time-consuming. </li></ul></li></ul>Loss of accessibility compliance – Failure to meet accessibility standards can lead to legal issues and alienate users.The Solution: Implementing Automated &amp; Dedicated QA Testing<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Automation tools like Cypress,Selenium, and BrowserStack – These tools enable thorough cross-browser and cross-device testing, catching issues before launch.</li><li>Dedicated QA teams – Internal QA professionals bring an unbiased perspective and rigorously test for functionality,performance,and accessibility. </li><li>Routine Lighthouse audits – Regular performance assessments help maintain strong Core Web Vitals scores. </li><li>Testing on real devices – Emulators can help, but testing on physical mobile and desktop devices ensures a more accurate user experience.</li><li>Ensuring compatibility with older devices and OS versions – To reach a global audience,testing must extend beyond the latest Apple and Android devices to include older models and outdated operating systems.</li></ul></li></ul>How Vimware Ensures QA ExcellenceAt Vimware,we prioritize quality assurance by employing a dedicated team of QA professionals who rigorously test for bugs, performance, cross-browser compatibility,accessibility,and overall functionality.We utilize a wide range of mobile and desktop devices to ensure real-world usability, including older devices and operating systems for maximum compatibility. Our thorough QA process ensures that clients receive high-performing digital products that deliver outstanding user experiences. ConclusionInconsistent QA and testing can tarnish an agency’s reputation and negatively impact client projects.Digital agencies must adopt automated testing solutions, invest in dedicated QA professionals,and establish comprehensive testing protocols.By doing so,they can ensure seamless digital experiences,enhance client satisfaction,and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.Want to elevate your QA process? Contact Vimware today to learn how our expert team can help deliver flawless digital products.<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td><td style="width: 10%;" data-mce-style="width: 10%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table>Based in Burbank,California since 2015,Vimware is dedicated to supporting small to midsize businesses and agencies with their behind-the-scenes IT needs.As a Managed Service Provider (MSP),we offer a range of services including cloud solutions,custom programming,mobile app development, marketing dashboards,and strategic IT consulting.Our goal is to ensure your technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently,allowing you to focus on growing your business.<a data-mce-href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Contact us </a>to learn how we can assist in optimizing your IT operations.

The Cost of Inconsistent QA & Testing in Digital Agencies

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For small to midsize businesses (SMBs),staying competitive requires leveraging cloud-based solutions,customer-facing platforms,and data-driven services.However,one major IT challenge that often goes overlooked is cybersecurity vulnerabilities.At Vimware,we have seen countless clients operating in the cloud with gaping security issues,where best practices and standard security measures have not been properly implemented.Without proactive cybersecurity strategies,SMBs risk financial loss,reputational damage,and regulatory penalties.The Issue: Insufficient Protection Against BreachesMany SMBs assume they are too small to be targeted by cybercriminals, but the reality is that businesses handling sensitive client data—such as e-commerce platforms, healthcare providers, and financial services—are prime targets.A lack of multi-layered security measures leaves systems vulnerable to data breaches,ransomware attacks,and unauthorized access.Additionally,part of the problem stems from the ease with which less experienced personnel can spin up websites and services in the cloud without prioritizing security.Many of these platforms are misconfigured, lack proper encryption,or have weak access controls,making them easy targets for hackers.While cloud platforms offer incredible scalability,they also require strict governance and oversight to ensure that security is not compromised.The Impact: Data Leaks,Compliance Violations,and Business RisksFailure to secure digital assets can lead to: <ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li>Data breaches,exposing sensitive customer or business information. </li><li>Reputational damage,leading to loss of customer trust and business opportunities.</li><li><strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Legal and financial consequences<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">, including non-compliance with regulations such as <strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation),and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).</li></ul></li></ul><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">For example,an e-commerce business using weak encryption for payment processing or an unsecured API connection could expose customer payment data to hackers,violating compliance standards and putting the company at legal risk.<strong style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));"> <span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">The Solution: Implementing a Robust Cybersecurity Strategy<span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">To minimize risk and ensure compliance,SMBs should adopt proactive cybersecurity measures,including:<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Zero-Trust Security Models – Implement least-privilege access controls,ensuring that only authenticated and authorized users can access critical systems. </li><li><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Regular Penetration Testing – Conduct security assessments to identify and remediate vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. </li><li><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Cloud Security Best Practices – Secure cloud environments by <span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">enforcing data encryption, multi-factor authentication (MFA),and access logging. </li><li><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Employee Training and Awareness – Regularly educate staff on phishing,social engineering threats,and secure password practices. </li><li><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Stronger Cloud Governance – Ensure that IT policies are in place to monitor,audit,and secure cloud deployments,reducing the risk of&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;accidental exposure by inexperienced personnel. </li></ul></li></ul><span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">By taking cybersecurity seriously and adopting modern security frameworks,SMBs can protect their data,ensure compliance,and maintain customer trust. <span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Next Steps<span data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Is your business following cybersecurity best practices? At Vimware,we specialize in identifying and closing security gaps to help businesses safeguard their systems and data.A security audit today can prevent costly breaches tomorrow.Let’s make security a priority.<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td><td style="width: 12.5%;" data-mce-style="width: 12.5%;"> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Based in Burbank,California since 2015,Vimware is dedicated to supporting small to midsize businesses and agencies with their behind-the-scenes IT needs.As a Managed Service Provider (MSP),we offer a range of services including cloud solutions,custom programming,mobile app development,marketing dashboards,and strategic IT consulting.Our goal is to ensure your technology infrastructure operates smoothly and efficiently,allowing you to focus on growing your business.<a data-mce-href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" href="https://vimware.com/about/contact-us" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Contact us</a> to learn how we can assist in optimizing your IT operations.

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