Build Data Apps with Keboola

Understanding Data Apps and Streamlit

Data Apps are interactive applications or dashboards created to simplify data interaction, visualization, and entry. Keboola leverages the power of Streamlit, a robust Python library, to turn simple Python scripts into intuitive, user-friendly web apps. This integration allows users, regardless of their technical expertise, to build and deploy efficient data tools quickly and easily.

Why Choose Keboola for Your Streamlit Data Apps?

Keboola provides a streamlined environment for developing, deploying, and managing Data Apps powered by Streamlit. Whether you're looking to automate data entry, visualize insights, or create interactive dashboards, Keboola simplifies the entire process, enabling you to focus on generating valuable insights rather than managing infrastructure.

• Easy Integration: Seamlessly connect your Python scripts to Keboola's robust backend.
• Secure Deployment: Choose from multiple authentication methods, including Basic Authentication and OIDC integration.
• Scalability: Effortlessly scale your Data Apps as your business grows.
• Customizable: Tailor the look and feel of your apps with custom CSS and styling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Data App in Keboola

Let's explore, step-by-step, how to create and deploy a practical Data App using Keboola and Streamlit.

Step 1: Creating Your Data App

1. Log in to your Keboola platform and navigate to Components > Data Apps.
2. Click on Create Data App and give your app a meaningful name, such as "Call Center App".
3. Add a clear description to ensure easy identification in the future.
4. Select your authentication method:
   • Basic Authentication: Username and password for quick setup.
   • OIDC Authentication: Integrate with your Identity Provider (Okta, Entra, Gmail, etc.) for enterprise-level security.

Step 2: Writing Your Streamlit Code

Keboola simplifies coding by allowing you to write or import code directly from GitHub. To start:

• Select "Code" and click "Add Code".
• Import necessary libraries:
  • Streamlit: Simplifies web interface creation.
  • Keboola’s Streamlit Package: Integrates your Data App with Keboola's powerful backend.
• Set up connection variables (hostname, API token) to securely access Keboola’s resources.
• Create arrays or lists for dropdown menus (e.g., operators, products).
• Build the interactive form with Streamlit’s intuitive components:
  • Dropdowns for error-free selection.
  • Date picker for easy date selection.
  • Numeric input fields to ensure data integrity.

Step 3: Managing Dependencies & Packages

Keboola’s Streamlit Base Image includes common Python packages. However, if your app requires additional packages, simply:

• Add package names in the "Packages" field provided by Keboola.
• Find a full list of pre-installed packages in the Keboola documentation to avoid duplication.

Step 4: Securing Your App with API Tokens

For added security, API tokens used to fetch data from Keboola should be stored securely:

• Navigate to the "Secrets" section.
• Name your API token variable and enter the generated value from your Project Settings.
• Your token is securely stored and encrypted, ensuring safe data transfer and storage.

Step 5: Customizing and Styling Your Data App

Keboola allows customization to match your branding:

• Select from predefined color schemes.
• Add custom CSS styles for a truly branded experience aligned with your corporate identity.

Step 6: Deploying and Running the Data App

Once your code is set and tested, you can deploy your Data App:

• Click "Deploy Data App" and wait for Keboola to handle the rest.
• After deployment, your Data App is ready to use—just click "Open Data App".
• An accessible URL and login credentials (if Basic Authentication is selected) will be provided.

Real-World Example: Call Center Data Entry App

Consider a call center where data entry speed and accuracy are paramount. Keboola’s Data Apps streamline this process:

• Operators select their names from dropdown menus to reduce errors.
• Products sold are chosen from validated lists, preventing invalid entries.
• A date picker allows quick selection of the sale date.
• Commission entries are numeric-only to maintain accuracy.

Streamlining this data entry process ensures quicker operations and reduces the risk of costly mistakes. Keboola’s integration with Streamlit enables businesses of all sizes to rapidly create functional, secure, and error-resistant Data Apps.

Benefits of Keboola and Streamlit Integration

• Rapid Development: Quickly go from idea to deployment with minimal coding effort.
• Enhanced Data Quality: Reduce errors through validated input forms and automated workflows.
• Easy Maintenance: Simplified app management means you can update and scale without hassle.
• Improved Collaboration: Share interactive apps organization-wide, improving transparency and data-driven decision-making.

Get Started Today

Ready to experience the simplicity and power of Keboola’s Data Apps? Start creating your own interactive apps today and revolutionize the way your business handles data.