Mastering data with pivot tables in Jira

mastering data with pivot tables in jira - header

Pivot tables provide numerous options for presenting extensive datasets in a clear and understandable way. They help you pinpoint the most relevant aspects of your project, enabling you to make informed decisions. The key strength of pivot tables lies in their ability to easily transform data, allowing you to focus on the information that matters most. This ensures you can present data in a way that maximizes knowledge gain.

Are you looking to evaluate your team's efficiency or analyze historical trends? Pivot tables are the perfect tool. They allow you to not only analyze your data in a targeted manner but also discover new approaches to problem-solving.

Feeling overwhelmed by pivot tables? Don't worry—it's perfectly normal! If you frequently work with Jira and find that the standard reports don't provide the information you need, then you’re in the right place. Pivot tables can unlock the potential for improving your data analysis and reporting.

AI-generated impression of data work
AI-generated impression of data work

In this article, we’ll show you how to use pivot tables to gain valuable insights and make the most of the various functions available in Report Builder for Jira Cloud. Let's dive into how you can use pivot tables to transform your project analyses, easily and effectively!

The Advantages of Pivot Tables

Pivot tables are more than just a statistical tool; they enable you to analyze your data creatively. Each time you record new information in Jira—whether it's status changes, task assignments, or processing times—you can use this data to make smarter decisions. Here are some benefits pivot tables offer:

  • Data Compression and Clarity: Pivot tables condense large datasets into easily digestible summaries. Instead of scrolling through endless rows and columns, you can instantly view key figures that matter most to you.
  • Trend Detection: Pivot tables help identify trends that may not be apparent in raw data. These trends provide insight into your team's performance throughout a project, aiding strategic decision-making.
  • Interactive Analysis: Customize your pivot tables by dragging and dropping different dimensions to create new views. This flexibility allows you to examine data from multiple perspectives.

Practical Applications of Pivot Tables

Pivot tables have countless practical uses in Jira. Here are a few ways they can enhance your daily workflow as a Scrum Master or project manager:

  • Performance Analysis: Analyze the performance of individual team members or the entire team across different sprints or projects. Gain insights into strengths and areas for improvement, allowing you to address them in a targeted manner.
  • Task Distribution: Use pivot tables to review task assignments across team members and identify uneven workloads. This helps optimize efficiency and prevent burnout.
  • Project Documentation: Create regular status reports that summarize key performance indicators and trends. These reports facilitate better communication with stakeholders and team members.

Step by Step: How to Create Pivot Tables with Report Builder for Jira Cloud

Ready to dive into data acrobatics? Here's a step-by-step guide to creating compelling pivot tables using Report Builder for Jira Cloud. It may seem complicated at first, but with our guide, it’ll be easy!

1. Start in Report Builder: Log in to your Jira Cloud instance, navigate to Report Builder, and create a new “Universal Report.” This is where your data analysis journey begins.

2. Select Your Data: Choose the data you want to analyze in your pivot table. Report Builder offers a variety of options, such as all tickets from one or more projects, tickets from a specific epic, existing filters, or even custom selections using JQL statements.

creating-report-in-report-builder


3. Design Your Pivot Table: Now comes the creative part! Select which dimensions to display in the rows and columns, and choose how to aggregate the data (e.g., totals, averages, or other statistics).

4. Check the Results: Review the generated pivot table to ensure it provides the information you need. If not, make adjustments to fine-tune the display.

5. Export Your Pivot Table: Once you're satisfied with the pivot table, Report Builder offers multiple ways to visualize your data. You can also export the table as a PDF or Excel file to share in meetings or with your team.

report builder view of creating a pivot table with overview of data in table like assignee, sum of original estimate, sum of remaining estimate and count of issues.


Your Path to Data-Driven Decisions

Pivot tables are a powerful tool for Scrum Masters and project managers, helping you analyze and present data effectively. With Report Builder for Jira Cloud, you gain access to an advanced toolset that enables you to create meaningful pivot tables and extract deeper insights from your projects. These capabilities can be a game changer, allowing you to interpret data faster and make more informed decisions.

Excited about the possibilities that pivot tables offer? Elevate your Jira project analyses with Report Builder: Jira Reports and Data Analysis app!

If you have ideas for improving Report Builder, we’d love to hear from you. We're always open to feedback.

Best of luck, and enjoy creating your first pivot table with Report Builder for Jira Cloud! 😊

Bonus: Cheat Sheet

Ready to apply your new pivot table knowledge? We’ve created a handy cheat sheet that walks you through the essential steps. Download it now—free of charge:


Further Reading

Spacecraft - The ultimate theming tool for Confluence Spacecraft - The ultimate theming tool for Confluence Spacecraft - The ultimate theming tool for Confluence