You might have spreadsheets, analytics tools, a CRM full of customer interactions – but unless that data is organized and visualized in a meaningful way, it’s hard to act on it. That’s where dashboards come in. And more specifically, that’s where Looker Studio (formerly Google Data Studio) shines as a powerful, flexible tool for turning raw numbers into visual insights. If you’re working with a Looker Studio consultant or thinking about hiring one, you might be wondering: What exactly does that process look like?
Discovery & Needs Assessment
Before any charts are created or data sources connected, the consultant first needs to understand your world.
What decisions are you trying to support with your data? Who will be using the dashboard? What pain points are you facing with your current reporting processes? These early conversations are critical. They ensure the final product isn’t just visually impressive – it’s relevant, practical, and aligned with your goals.
This is also the point where the depth of Looker Studio Consulting really shows. A good consultant doesn’t just take orders – they ask thoughtful questions, challenge assumptions, and help you define what success actually looks like. They aim to understand not just what you have, but what you need.
Data Audit & Source Mapping
Once your goals are clear, it’s time to look under the hood.
The consultant will review your current data sources: Google Analytics, Google Ads, spreadsheets, CRM systems, e-commerce platforms, databases – whatever you’re working with. They’ll map out where your key metrics live and assess data quality and structure.
In many cases, this phase uncovers hidden roadblocks: inconsistent tagging, missing dimensions, or conflicting metric definitions. Identifying these early means fewer surprises later.
Data Modelling & Preparation
With the data sources mapped, the consultant then transforms raw information into a structure that supports the stories you want to tell.
This might involve creating calculated fields, blending multiple sources, or filtering and segmenting the data so it speaks more clearly to your audience. It’s not just about what the data says – it’s about how it can be shaped to reflect how your team thinks and decides.
The best dashboards are rooted in business context. They reflect terminology your team already uses and mirror the metrics that matter most.
Wireframing & UX Planning
Next, it’s time to sketch the dashboard – before a single chart is built.
Wireframing helps define the layout, flow, and visual hierarchy. Which numbers need to be front and centre? What filters should users have control over? Where do you need trend lines, comparisons, or deep dives?
At this stage, the focus is on usability. A clean, well-organized dashboard saves time and reduces confusion. It encourages regular engagement rather than occasional glances.
Building the Dashboard
Now the real fun begins.
Using Looker Studio, the consultant starts bringing the vision to life with live data. Branding, filters, dropdowns, date pickers, charts, and tables come together into a dashboard that’s both attractive and functional.
Collaboration is key here. Consultants typically review early versions with stakeholders, gather feedback, and adjust. Iteration ensures the final product truly fits the way your team works.
Testing, QA, and Documentation
Once the dashboard is functional, it goes through a round of testing.
Does every filter work? Are the numbers accurate? Are permissions set correctly? Can users access what they need without confusion?
Good consultants will also deliver documentation, explaining the data sources, custom fields, and how to update or extend the dashboard later on. This ensures your team doesn’t just have a dashboard – they understand it.
Handoff, Training & Support
The final step is handoff – but a good consultant doesn’t just send over a link and walk away.
They’ll train your team on how to use the dashboard effectively, make minor changes, and interpret the insights. Many also offer ongoing support packages for updates, new features, or troubleshooting.
The goal? To empower your team to own the dashboard long after the consultant steps back. Because the best dashboards aren’t static – they grow and evolve as your business does.
Conclusion: From Data to Decisions
Turning raw data into something useful isn’t a quick fix – it’s a thoughtful process. And with the right approach, it leads to dashboards that support real decisions, not just decorate reports.
Looker Studio offers the flexibility, connectivity, and visual clarity you need. But it’s the consulting process behind the scenes that turns potential into power. When done right, dashboards become more than reporting tools – they become conversation starters, decision accelerators, and trusted sources of truth.