Joining tables in Zoho Analytics allows you to combine data from multiple sources for richer, more comprehensive reporting. A join establishes a relationship between tables using a shared common column. There are two main methods: auto-join using lookup columns, and manual SQL joins within query tables.

Method 1: Auto-Join with Lookup Columns

Auto-join automatically merges data from related tables when you create a report, provided lookup relationships have been defined between them. This approach requires no SQL knowledge and is the recommended starting point for most users.

Defining Lookup Relationships

Lookup columns can be set up in several places:

• Import Wizard - During data import, click Join tables to confirm the suggested relationships Zoho Analytics has detected.
• Table Designer - Right-click any column and select Change to Lookup to link it to a column in another table.
• Edit Design - Add or manage lookup columns manually, or use the Get Suggestions option to let Zoho Analytics recommend relationships based on matching column names and values.
• Report Editor - Define join relationships on the fly whilst building a report.

Using Auto-Join in Reports

Once lookup relationships are in place, drag and drop columns from related tables into the report designer. Zoho Analytics automatically identifies and applies the appropriate join at query time.

Join Types

Zoho Analytics uses a Left Join by default, which returns all rows from the child table and only matching rows from the parent table. You can switch to a Right Join, which returns all rows from the parent table and only matching rows from the child table. Change the join type via the View Relationships icon in the chart designer.

Advanced Join Options

• Multiple lookup columns - Select more than one lookup column between a pair of tables to create multi-condition joins for complex reporting scenarios.
• Lookup path configuration - Choose indirect connection routes between tables via intermediate tables when a direct lookup does not exist.

Method 2: SQL Joins Using Query Tables

Query Tables let you write SQL SELECT statements to join multiple tables and create new virtual data views. These query tables behave like standard tables and can be used as the basis for reports, charts, and further query tables. This method gives full control over join logic and is suited to more complex data preparation needs.