Skand’s eyes sparkled with wonder and his heart brimmed with curiosity about the world around him. One sunny morning, while playing in the garden, Skand stumbled upon a mysterious object buried beneath a patch of flowers. With chubby fingers, he carefully unearthed the object and discovered it was an ancient tablet, intricately carved with strange symbols.

Excited by his discovery, Skand showed the tablet to his parents, who were amazed by its beauty and uniqueness. As dusk settled over the village, Skand’s parents tucked him into bed, but the image of the tablet lingered in his mind.

In the quiet of the night, as the moon cast its silvery glow through his window, Skand’s room was bathed in a gentle light, and the tablet began to shimmer and pulse with an otherworldly energy.

In awe, Skand reached out to touch the tablet, and to his amazement, it began to glow brighter and brighter until the room was filled with its radiant light. Suddenly, the symbols on the tablet began to shift and transform, forming intricate patterns that seemed to dance before his eyes.

Without warning, a soft voice filled the room, gentle and melodious. “I am the keeper of ancient tales,” it whispered, “and you, young Skand, have unlocked the first chapter of a great adventure.”

With a flicker of light, the tablet projected a holographic image, depicting a magnificent city with towering spires and bustling streets. Skand’s eyes widened with wonder as he realized he was being transported to a distant land, far beyond the reaches of his village.

As he stepped through the holographic portal, Skand found himself in the heart of the ancient city, surrounded by bustling markets and towering monuments.

With each step, he felt the magic of the tablet guiding him, leading him through winding streets and hidden alleyways.

Along the way, Skand encountered wise sages, mystical creatures, and brave heroes, each with a tale to tell and a lesson to impart. He listened with rapt attention, soaking in the wisdom of ages past and the enchanting stories of a bygone era.

As dawn broke over the horizon, Skand found himself back in his room, the tablet resting peacefully in his hands.

Though the adventure had ended, the memories would stay with him forever, a reminder of the magic that dwelled within the world and the endless possibilities that awaited those who dared to seek them.

With a contented sigh, Skand drifted off to sleep, the echoes of ancient tales dancing in his dreams. And as he slept, the tablet glowed softly beside him, a silent guardian of secrets untold and adventures yet to come.

With chubby fingers, she carefully unearthed the object and discovered it was an ancient tablet, intricately carved with strange symbols. Excited by her discovery, Darya showed the tablet to her parents, who were amazed by its beauty and uniqueness.

As dusk settled over the village, Darya’s parents tucked her into bed, but the image of the tablet lingered in her mind. In the quiet of the night, as the moon cast its silvery glow through her window, Darya’s room was bathed in a gentle light, and the tablet began to shimmer and pulse with an otherworldly energy.

In awe, Darya reached out to touch the tablet, and to her amazement, it began to glow brighter and brighter until the room was filled with its radiant light. Suddenly, the symbols on the tablet began to shift and transform, forming intricate patterns that seemed to dance before her eyes.

Without warning, a soft voice filled the room, gentle and melodious. “I am the keeper of ancient tales,” it whispered, “and you, young Darya, have unlocked the first chapter of a great adventure.”

With a flicker of light, the tablet projected a holographic image, depicting a magnificent city with towering spires and bustling streets. Darya’s eyes widened with wonder as she realized she was being transported to a distant land, far beyond the reaches of her village.

As she stepped through the holographic portal, Darya found herself in the heart of the ancient city, surrounded by bustling markets and towering monuments. With each step, she felt the magic of the tablet guiding her, leading her through winding streets and hidden alleyways.

Along the way, Darya encountered wise sages, mystical creatures, and brave heroes, each with a tale to tell and a lesson to impart. She listened with rapt attention, soaking in the wisdom of ages past and the enchanting stories of a bygone era.

As dawn broke over the horizon, Darya found herself back in her room, the tablet resting peacefully in her hands. Though the adventure had ended, the memories would stay with her forever, a reminder of the magic that dwelled within the world and the endless possibilities that awaited those who dared to seek them.

With a contented sigh, Darya drifted off to sleep, the echoes of ancient tales dancing in her dreams. And as she slept, the tablet glowed softly beside her, a silent guardian of secrets untold and adventures yet to come.

Narrator: (using a soothing and animated voice) Once upon a time, in a galaxy far, far away, there lived a little baby named Darya. Darya was about to embark on an exciting adventure through the wonders of the solar system!

[Darya’s parents, using playful and exaggerated voices, enter the stage along with plush toys representing the sun and planets.]

Mom: (excitedly) Good morning, little star! Are you ready for an out-of-this-world adventure?

Dad: (in a deep voice) We’re going to explore the solar system today, Darya! Are you ready to meet some celestial friends?

Narrator: (cheerfully) Darya giggled with delight as her parents introduced her to the magical world of planets, stars, and moons. First stop, the fiery star at the center of it all, the Sun!

[The Sun plush toy is brought forward, radiating warmth and light.]

Sun: (with a warm and bright voice) Hello, little Darya! I’m the Sun, the center of our solar system. I’ll be guiding you on our cosmic journey today!

Narrator: (encouragingly) Darya cooed happily as she felt the warmth of the Sun’s rays, her face lighting up with joy.

Mom: (excitedly) Next up, we’re off to meet the closest planet to the Sun, speedy little Mercury!

[Mercury, represented by a small plush toy, joins the stage.]

Mercury: (with energy and enthusiasm) Hi there, Darya! I’m Mercury, the fastest planet in the solar system! I zip around the Sun in a flash!

Narrator: (enthusiastically) Darya’s eyes sparkled with wonder as she watched Mercury zoom around the stage, her tiny hands reaching out to touch the speedy planet.

Dad: (in a mysterious tone) Now, it’s time to journey to the second planet from the Sun, the beautiful Venus!

[Venus, represented by a shiny plush toy, joins the stage.]

Venus: (with grace and elegance) Greetings, little Darya! I’m Venus, the planet of love and beauty. My clouds shimmer with radiance just like you!

Narrator: (amused) Darya giggled as Venus twirled gracefully, her golden clouds shimmering in the stage lights.

Mom: (cheerfully) Look, Darya, we’re approaching the third planet from the Sun, the blue gem we call Earth!

[Earth, represented by a plush toy adorned with green and blue, joins the stage.]

Earth: (with warmth and affection) Hello, sweet Darya! I’m Earth, your home among the stars. My oceans, forests, and mountains are waiting for you to explore!

Narrator: (gleefully) Darya cooed with delight as she gazed upon Earth’s vibrant colors, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity.

Dad: (with a booming voice) Hold on tight, Darya! We’re now venturing to the red planet, Mars!

[Mars, represented by a small plush toy, joins the stage.]

Mars: (with determination) Greetings, young explorer! I’m Mars, the red planet, known for my rusty surface and mighty mountains. Let’s go on an adventure together!

Narrator: (curiously) Darya watched with wonder as Mars beckoned her to join in an imaginary journey across its rugged terrain.

Mom: (with wonder) Look, Darya, we’re approaching the giant planet, Jupiter, king of the solar system!

[Jupiter, represented by a large plush toy with colorful bands, joins the stage.]

Jupiter: (with grandeur) Salutations, little one! I’m Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system. My storms rage with power, but my heart is as vast as the cosmos!

Narrator: (intrigued) Darya’s eyes widened with awe as she beheld the majestic presence of Jupiter, feeling a sense of wonder at its immense size.

Dad: (with a gentle voice) And finally, Darya, we’ve reached the ringed planet, Saturn!

[Saturn, represented by a plush toy adorned with rings, joins the stage.]

Saturn: (with elegance) Greetings, tiny traveler! I’m Saturn, adorned with rings of ice and rock. They may be beautiful, but you’re the real star of the show!

Narrator: (amused) Darya giggled as Saturn twirled gracefully, its rings shimmering in the stage lights like a cosmic carousel.

Mom: (with excitement) Look, Darya, it’s time to visit the ice giants, Uranus and Neptune!

[Uranus and Neptune, represented by plush toys in shades of blue and green, join the stage.]

Uranus: (with a gentle voice) Hello, little one! I’m Uranus, the icy giant spinning in the depths of space. Let’s dance among the stars!

Neptune: (with a soothing voice) Greetings, young adventurer! I’m Neptune, the mysterious ocean world. Come, dive into my depths and explore the wonders of the unknown!

Narrator: (encouragingly) Darya watched in awe as Uranus and Neptune glided gracefully, their icy atmospheres swirling with mystery and magic.

Dad: (with a booming voice) And now, Darya, we’ve reached the edge of the solar system, where the mysterious dwarf planet Pluto resides.

[Pluto, represented by a small plush toy, joins the stage.]

Pluto: (with a playful tone) Hello there, little stargazer! I’m Pluto, the tiny planet with a big heart. Though I may be small, my spirit shines as bright as the stars!

Narrator: (reflectively) Darya cooed contentedly as Pluto gently floated, a reminder that even the smallest among us can hold a place of significance in the vastness of space.

Mom: (tenderly) And so, our cosmic journey comes to an end, Darya. But remember, the universe is vast and full of wonders, just waiting for you to explore!

Narrator: (warmly) With that, Darya’s parents bid her goodnight, knowing that their little star was dreaming of adventures among the stars and planets, far beyond the reaches of their cozy home.

[The stage lights dim as soft lullaby music plays in the background, and Darya drifts off to sleep, dreaming of the wonders of the cosmos.]

In one of these cities, there lived a curious little baby named Skand.

Skand loved to explore and learn about the world around them. One day, Skand’s parents decided to take them on a special journey to explore different parts of Earth.

Their adventure began in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where they marveled at the colorful birds, playful monkeys, and towering trees that stretched towards the sky.

Skand giggled with delight as they splashed in the cool waters of the Amazon River and felt the soft moss beneath their tiny feet.

Next, they traveled to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, where they met friendly penguins sliding on the ice and watched in awe as massive glaciers glistened in the sunlight. Skand bundled up in warm clothes and enjoyed making snowballs and building snowmen with their new penguin friends.

From there, they journeyed to the African savanna, where they spotted graceful giraffes, majestic lions, and playful elephants roaming freely in the vast grasslands.

Skand listened to the rhythmic beat of African drums and danced along with the local villagers under the starry night sky.

Their travels took them to the serene beaches of the Pacific Islands, where they played in the soft sand, collected seashells, and splashed in the crystal-clear waters. Skand marveled at the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and swam alongside gentle sea turtles.

As their adventure came to an end, Skand realized how vast and diverse the world truly was. They had explored just a small fraction of the wonders that Earth had to offer, but they knew that there was so much more waiting to be discovered.

With a heart full of gratitude and wonder, Skand returned home, eager to continue their journey of exploration and discovery on the amazing planet we call Earth.

And so, the adventures of Skand on Planet Earth continued, filled with endless opportunities to learn, grow, and cherish the beauty of our incredible home.

In one of these cities, there lived a curious little baby named Chutki.

Chutki loved to explore and learn about the world around them. One day, Chutki’s parents decided to take them on a special journey to explore different parts of Earth.

Their adventure began in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where they marveled at the colorful birds, playful monkeys, and towering trees that stretched towards the sky.

Chutki giggled with delight as they splashed in the cool waters of the Amazon River and felt the soft moss beneath their tiny feet.

Next, they traveled to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, where they met friendly penguins sliding on the ice and watched in awe as massive glaciers glistened in the sunlight. Chutki bundled up in warm clothes and enjoyed making snowballs and building snowmen with their new penguin friends.

From there, they journeyed to the African savanna, where they spotted graceful giraffes, majestic lions, and playful elephants roaming freely in the vast grasslands.

Chutki listened to the rhythmic beat of African drums and danced along with the local villagers under the starry night sky.

Their travels took them to the serene beaches of the Pacific Islands, where they played in the soft sand, collected seashells, and splashed in the crystal-clear waters. Chutki marveled at the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and swam alongside gentle sea turtles.

As their adventure came to an end, Chutki realized how vast and diverse the world truly was. They had explored just a small fraction of the wonders that Earth had to offer, but they knew that there was so much more waiting to be discovered.

With a heart full of gratitude and wonder, Chutki returned home, eager to continue their journey of exploration and discovery on the amazing planet we call Earth.

And so, the adventures of Chutki on Planet Earth continued, filled with endless opportunities to learn, grow, and cherish the beauty of our incredible home.

In one of these cities, there lived a curious little baby named Darya.

Darya loved to explore and learn about the world around them. One day, Darya’s parents decided to take them on a special journey to explore different parts of Earth.

Their adventure began in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where they marveled at the colorful birds, playful monkeys, and towering trees that stretched towards the sky.

Darya giggled with delight as they splashed in the cool waters of the Amazon River and felt the soft moss beneath their tiny feet.

Next, they traveled to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, where they met friendly penguins sliding on the ice and watched in awe as massive glaciers glistened in the sunlight. Darya bundled up in warm clothes and enjoyed making snowballs and building snowmen with their new penguin friends.

From there, they journeyed to the African savanna, where they spotted graceful giraffes, majestic lions, and playful elephants roaming freely in the vast grasslands.

Darya listened to the rhythmic beat of African drums and danced along with the local villagers under the starry night sky.

Their travels took them to the serene beaches of the Pacific Islands, where they played in the soft sand, collected seashells, and splashed in the crystal-clear waters. Darya marveled at the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and swam alongside gentle sea turtles.

As their adventure came to an end, Darya realized how vast and diverse the world truly was. They had explored just a small fraction of the wonders that Earth had to offer, but they knew that there was so much more waiting to be discovered.

With a heart full of gratitude and wonder, Darya returned home, eager to continue their journey of exploration and discovery on the amazing planet we call Earth.

And so, the adventures of Darya on Planet Earth continued, filled with endless opportunities to learn, grow, and cherish the beauty of our incredible home.

Postman strives to use data in product decisions. In this article, I will cover our journey from traditional ways of dashboard development to API-driven dashboards for studying usage behavior.

The need for API-driven Analytics

The Data Science function, since its inception around two and a half years ago, has been catering to the analytics needs of different functions in Postman. Dashboards and reports constitute the major need across functions. This is how the Dashboard development workflow looked like when we started out.

It would take usually 2 to 3 iterations to develop a production-ready dashboard owing to back and forth discussions around evolving requirements. As the app complexity further evolved to cater to diverse needs of Postman community, more functions within the organization felt the need of using richer analytics to drive product improvements. We needed a scalable way of fulfilling this need.

Bringing the API way of thought to data science

The solution was to develop an internal Data API exposing a standardized set of product usage metrics for all functions within the organization (referred to as “business users” from here on). This would enable the business users to choose metrics of interest and create their own dashboards, thus eliminating back and forth discussions and enhancing reproducibility in dashboard development workflow. Consumers of the API won’t have to worry about data sources, metric definitions, relationships between the tables, learning a scripting language anymore.

Building an internal Data API

We achieved this goal of building our internal Data API with the help of Looker’s Explores. A Looker Explore contains the reference to calculation logic of metrics to be exposed along with the relevant source tables and relationship between them. We identified a comprehensive set of metrics regularly needed within the organization and exposed them through these Explores. These explores now act as the starting point of query for the metrics exposed through them. In addition, consumers can also add these metrics as graphs and other visuals in Looker Dashboard. The dashboard development workflow now looks like this:

With the Data APIs in place, the responsibility of the Data Science team reduces to building fundamental APIs through explores.

API-first Data Science

The shifted focus of Data Science from traditional dashboard development to the development of a shared Data API that can be used throughout the organization has proven to be advantageous in multiple aspects. These include:

1. Organization-wide availability of readily consumable metrics
2. Standardized metric definitions to avoid confusion
3. Single source of truth
4. No need to understand the complex relationships between the database tables to fetch data
5. Elimination of inefficient back and forth between the Business Users and Data Science team
6. Removes dependency on Data Scientists as the bottleneck in the way of business users’ consumption of analytics
7. Frees up the Data Scientists’ time for more interesting activities

The Data APIs are a major step towards API-first Data Science where we develop our APIs first and then build our reports and dashboards on top of it. Since we launched these APIs internally, Postman’s product, customer success, and sales teams have begun using them to build higher-level dashboards. These dashboards help them to identify trends and track progress of their respective functions. Best of all, they could do this without raising a request with data science.

API-driven Analytics in Data Science was originally published in Better Practices on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.