Available as of March 2, 2026
Multi-source datasets in Alchemer Dashboard allows you to visualize data from multiple surveys in a single chart. Now you can combine up to five surveys into one dataset and analyze them together.
This makes it easier to spot trends, compare performance, and turn feedback into clear, actionable insights—all in one place.
What is a multi-source dataset?
A multi-source dataset is a combined data model built from two to five surveys. When you create a multi-source dataset, Dashboard:
- Identifies matching question types across selected surveys
- Matches questions with identical question labels
- Combines those questions into a single dataset
- Enables you to run queries and build visualizations across all included surveys
When should you use a multi-source dataset?
Multi-source datasets are especially useful when you need to compare similar data across separate surveys.
Track NPS across multiple products
If your Customer Experience (CX) team manages separate NPS surveys for different products, you can combine them into a single dataset and visualize overall performance in one chart.
Instead of switching between datasets, you’ll see everything together—making trends and gaps easier to identify.
Compare pre- and post-surveys or survey waves
Running pre/post or wave-based research? Multi-source datasets let you:
- Compare responses from the same question across different time periods
- Visualize changes in customer sentiment in one cohesive chart
- Analyze improvement or decline without exporting and merging data externally
Requirements for combining surveys
To successfully create a multi-source dataset, your surveys must meet the following criteria:
- Surveys include common question types
- Matching questions use the same question label
- You select between two and five surveys
If question labels don’t match exactly, Dashboard won’t combine them into the dataset.
Tip: Use consistent question labels across surveys when planning longitudinal or comparative research.
How to create a multi-source dataset
Follow these steps in Alchemer Clarity:
1. Navigate to the Data source page
- Go to Dashboards (Clarity)
- Select Data > Source
2. Select multiple surveys
- Choose between two and five surveys
- Use the multi-select interface to highlight the surveys you want to combine
3. Create the multi-source dataset
- Click to initiate dataset creation
- Review the matched questions
- Provide a clear, descriptive name for your dataset
- Save the model
Dashboard will automatically match questions with identical labels and supported question types.
4. Build your visualization
Once the dataset is created:
- Select the new multi-source dataset as your source
- Create a query
- Build a chart or visualization
Your visualization will now display combined data from all selected surveys.
Best practices for multi-source reporting
To get the most value from this feature:
- Standardize question labels across surveys
- Use consistent answer options for radio button questions
- Plan survey structure in advance if you anticipate comparison
- Name datasets clearly (for example: “2025 Product NPS Comparison”)
A clear structure upfront ensures accurate matching and cleaner reporting later.
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine more than five surveys?
You can only select up to five surveys per multi-source dataset.
What happens if question labels are slightly different?
Questions must have identical question labels to be matched and combined. Even small differences will prevent merging.
Can I edit the dataset later?
You can modify dashboards and queries built from the dataset, but survey compatibility depends on matching structure and question labels.
