11.2. Metric Filters

Metric filters might seem straightforward, but they can be a bit confusing at times. In this lesson, we'll explore how to apply metric filters in Looker Studio and examine some of the nuances and limitations of this feature.

Applying Metric Filters

Imagine you have a table showing data from GA Universal. Previously, we filtered it based on dimension values. Now, we want to filter it based on metric values, specifically on the number of sessions. We want to see only those mediums with more than 290 sessions.

This should remove all rows from row three to the end since they don't have more than 290 sessions. Let's try it out and see what happens.

First, we add a metric filter for sessions greater than 290. When we try to save this filter, we encounter an error that states metric filters cannot be used with summary rows or analytical functions. This is because we had the summary row enabled on the chart.

To fix this, we need to disable the summary row and then add the filter again. Now it works! However, note that you can't have a summary row when applying metric filters to a chart.

Anomaly with Scorecard Filters

Let's take another example: we have a scorecard showing the total number of sessions. When we apply the same filter to this scorecard, the number doesn't change. The reason for this is that the scorecard is showing a total that is greater than 290, so the filter has no effect. If we change the filter to sessions greater than 90,000, the scorecard value will disappear because it doesn't meet the filter criteria.

Metric Filters with Google Sheets

Now, let's examine a table with data from a Google Sheet. This sheet has two columns and five rows, with revenue values for different holidays. We want to apply a metric filter for revenue greater than $220.

When we save this filter, it doesn't break the chart. This is because the data source is a Google Sheet and not an auto-aggregated metric like in Google Analytics. When Looker Studio has direct access to the raw data, it can apply metric filters without any issues.

This means that metric filters will work differently depending on the data source. With auto-aggregated metrics, applying a metric filter can break the chart or encounter limitations. When working with raw data, such as Google Sheets, Looker Studio can handle metric filters without any problems.

Additional note: GA4 should have the same issue as GA Universal with auto-aggregated metrics, but testing this could be an interesting exercise.