Getting started with the metric layer for Lightdash with dbt

The metrics layer can be the missing piece between your transformed models and BI tools to give you speed and guardrails. And in Lightdash itself it quickly gives you just the charts you need to start your analysis.


Skill Level
Advanced
Time to Complete
1,5 hours
OVERVIEW

About this course

Ah, the metrics layer! There were and are plenty of talks about them. And yes, there are still people around who are unsure if the concept makes sense. At least for Oliver and myself, it makes 100% sense. And we explain in this course what kinds of things the metrics layer can solve for you and where you can get speed and guardrails. And we demo how to define metrics and dimensions in dbt and, based on that, create a new Lightdash project and have a time to an insight of ~20m. Not bad at all.
Trailer
WHO

Who is this course for

1
Analytics Engineer
You are the ones who bring all our data to life and turn it into valuable insights. The ones who turn data into gold, like a modern-day alchemist.
2
Data Engineer
You are the mastermind behind the scenes who makes sure all our data is playing nice together. You are the ones who keep the data blockages at bay, making sure everything runs like a well-oiled machine.
3
Product Analyst
You are the product data detective (Mrs. or Mr. Holmes), using your analytical skills to uncover insights from your products. You help businesses make strategic decisions and drive growth by identifying trends and patterns in the data.
CURRICULUM

LEARN-BY DOING WITH LESSONS

The choice is yours - you can either immerse yourself and complete the course in one go, or take a more gradual approach by repeating and skipping between lessons at your own pace.
KEY TAKEAWAYS

WHAT YOU LEARN

The best way to learn is by taking action, so it's time to get ready to work.
Here are some of the things you'll get out of doing this course:
What are the benefits a metrics layer can bring to your setup?
Where in a data stack lives the metrics layer?
How to define metrics and dimensions in dbt using Lightdash's approach
How to use the Lightdash CLI to generate a model config?
How to use the Lightdash CLI to create a new Lightdash project based on your dbt project
How to create a chart and dive deeper from there in Lightdash
WHY

Why learn with Deepskydata?

We understand the struggle because we've once been in your shoes. Allow us to share what we know now to help you reach your destination with ease and make your learning journey smoother.
Shortcut to success
Get hands-on shortcuts across the data stack with our how-to videos, saving you time and resources on testing and debugging - where 90% of the work lies.
A new community
Rolling out in early 2023 the new community will bring you together with data practitioners who are on the same track, with the same struggles to share experiences.
We are here for you
This is not a watch and forget platform. We are here to help you. Do you have questions after watching a course - just get in touch with us.
DEEPSKYDATA TEACHERS

LEARN WITH EXPERIENCED DATA EXPERTS

Teacher
The background of the info card. Likely the portait of a person who is a teacher on the platform.
A colourful small side decoration on an info card.
Timo Dechau
Founder & Data Engineer
Teacher
The background of the info card. Likely the portait of a person who is a teacher on the platform.
A colourful small side decoration on an info card.
Oliver Laslett
CTO & Founder of Lightdash