Game-Changer in Qlik: Set Analysis Now Works WITHOUT Using It’s Syntax!

Qlik has silently rolled out a new feature in Qlik Cloud that’s bound to make life easier. Especially for users who aren’t fluent in set analysis. With this update, it’s now possible to apply filters directly on individual objects without writing any set analysis syntax. Let’s take a look at what’s new, and why it matters.

What’s in the new update?

Traditionally, if you wanted to filter a visualization to only show data for, say, the Beauty product category, you’d have to write something like this in the measure expression:

{<[Product Category] = {‘Beauty’}>}

While powerful, set analysis isn’t always intuitive, especially for casual or business users. This new feature introduces an easier way: applying object-level filters directly through the UI.

How does it work?

When you select a chart or table object, you’ll now notice a third header next to Dimensions and Measures: Filters.

Under this new tab, you can apply filters using one of the following options:

• Values
  Browse a list of all available values from your data model and select which ones to include or exclude.
• Search
  Type a value manually, with support for wildcards. This is helpful when you’re looking for partial matches or need more control.
• Condition
  Type a condition manually. For example, the price per unit must be greater than 150.
• Clear Selection
  This disables filtering for the selected dimension. This functionally works the same as writing [Product Category]= in set analysis.

One thing to note: this filter applies to the specific object it’s configured on. That makes it especially handy for developers working on sheets, as they can easily add filters without touching the underlying data model or writing set analysis. End-users cannot change the setting of these filters.

When you need to compare multiple measures with different selections (for example, ‘max year’ vs. ‘max year -1’), set analysis is still required. The object-level filter applies uniformly to all measures and dimensions in the object. It’s not measure-specific.

Set Analysis Takes Priority

Another important thing to understand is that when both a set analysis expression and a UI-filter are applied to the same dimension, the set analysis will take precedence.

For example, when you use the new Filters panel on a chart and select 2025 as the value for the Year field. However, within that same chart, you have two measures:

• One with set analysis explicitly filtering for Year = 2024
• One with set analysis explicitly filtering for Year = 2025

In this case, Qlik will ignore the UI-based filter entirely for both measures. Instead, it will follow the logic in the expressions. The first measure will show values for 2024, and the second will show values for 2025. Regardless of what you selected in the Filters panel.

This behavior ensures that developers retain full control over the logic embedded in visualizations. However, it also means that you need to be aware of possible confusion for users, especially if they expect their filter selections to apply universally across the object.

A Simple, Clean Filtering Experience

We’ve created a sample sheet using this new functionality. The experience is easier and faster. At the bottom of each object, Qlik clearly displays which filters are active. This makes it much easier for users to understand exactly what they are looking at, without having to inspect the expression or guess which data is included.

This preview feature becomes even more powerful when extended beyond just a single chart. Imagine setting filters on a master visualization or a master measure. If Qlik allows these filters to be shared or inherited, it could mean you only need to build and maintain one object and then reuse it in different contexts with variations on top.

That would bring the flexibility of Qlik to a whole new level. Combining consistent design with dynamic filtering logic, all without writing a single line of set analysis.

Why this function matters?

This feature makes Qlik Cloud more accessible to users who are less comfortable with scripting or syntax. It simplifies the development process and reduces the need for technical support when building dashboards. It also gives app developers more flexibility in offering user-specific views with minimal configuration effort.

Although the feature is still in preview, it is already very promising. It is a great example of Qlik making the platform easier to use, without taking away the power that experienced developers rely on.

If you’re curious to explore this new feature yourself, head over to the sheet editing mode in Qlik Cloud. At the bottom-left corner of the screen, you’ll find the Preview Features toggle. Once activated, the new Filters tab will become available on all your chart and table objects. If you have any questions please let us know.

Tom Maarsen

Tom joined Bitmetric in April 2023, bringing with him years of experience in returns logistics, including extensive work with Qlik. Over the years, he has developed dashboards for productivity tracking and near-real-time inventory insights. At Bitmetric, Tom has deepened his expertise in Qlik, TimeXtender, and Qlik Application Automation. As an automation expert, he spoke at the Qlik Master Summit, sharing insights on optimizing workflows. In his free time, Tom enjoys gardening and spending time on the water with his boat.