Alteryx Python Hacks: September 2024

Sep 6 / Data Prep U (Jose Arevalo)
This month we're sharing Alteryx Python Hacks, exploring untapped aspects of integrating Python with the Alteryx platform. Below are three new hacks utilizing Python that can significantly improve fuzzy matching, file handling, and reporting in Alteryx! 🚀
Enhance Fuzzy Matching Capabilities Using Python's fuzzywuzzy Library

The Alteryx Fuzzy Match tool is great, but what if you need even more flexibility or control, like matching row by row between two columns? Enter Python! By integrating Python's fuzzywuzzy library, you can simplify complex fuzzy matching tasks. Here's how to do it:

1. In your Python Tool, import fuzzywuzzy and pandas.
2. Load the two columns you want to compare as pandas DataFrames.
3. Apply row-by-row fuzzy matching using fuzzywuzzy functions like fuzz.ratio() or fuzz.partial_ratio() to compare entries.
4. Return the match scores or the best matches to your workflow.

This technique is ideal for scenarios where Alteryx's native tool falls short.

Improving File Handling with Python vs the Download Tool

Ever needed to send or retrieve an actual file from an API? While the Alteryx Download Tool is excellent for grabbing data from simple API endpoints, things can get tricky when you need to upload or download complex file formats, deal with advanced authentication, or interact with multipart API responses.

Using Python's requests library within the Python Tool in Alteryx, you can:

1. Retrieve actual files (PDFs, images, Excel files, etc.) from an API, handling more complex authentication methods like OAuth.
2. Upload files directly to APIs or cloud storage services (AWS S3, Google Drive, etc.) while managing multi-part forms and file streams.
3. Automate and schedule these file-handling tasks to fit seamlessly into your workflow.

For example:

1. Use requests.get() to download a file from an API endpoint, save it locally, and use it in your workflow.
2. Use requests.post() or put() to send documents back to a web service or API, automating file submissions.

This Python-powered hack gives you unparalleled control over file handling, making it easy to integrate complex API workflows that go beyond the capabilities of the standard Alteryx Download Tool.

Precise Reporting with Python's openpyxl Library

The Alteryx Reporting Tool offers solid reporting capabilities, but when you need precise formatting control over your Excel output, the Python openpyxl library is the answer. This allows for precise formatting, such as adjusting cell sizes, applying conditional formatting, or merging cells, which the standard Alteryx reporting tools may struggle to achieve.

Here’s how to enhance your reports:

1. Use openpyxl to open the Excel file generated from Alteryx.
2. Apply custom formatting to your cells, such as adding borders, adjusting fonts, or setting column widths.
3. Save the updated workbook and return it to your workflow for distribution.

This hack provides unparalleled control over how your reports look, ensuring that your deliverables meet exact business requirements.
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Don't miss our next monthly post for more tips and tricks! 🚀