Trying to use a parameter in a blend with a little hack - almost works

[palle_dinesen]

I am building a report, where I combine data from two data sources, and then I would like to do a calculated value based on data from those source and then an input parameter, such that for example:

output = parameter x data from source 1 x data from source 2. 

As you cannot add parameters that has been added to a data source in Looker to a blend, I tried to hack a bit by adding a calculated field  such that 

calculated parameter = parameter

This allows me to add the calculated parameter to the blend, which I can then use to calculate and visualize output. 

I can succesfully add a control to a page in my report, where I can input the value of parameter and then the output is re-calculated on that page, and any chart based on that gets updated. 

The problem arises, if I add another page, and try to do something with the output on that page. The output will not be updated based on the input on the (previous) page, which I don't fully understand, since I am using the same blend, and values in the blend table should be updated already after changing the parameter value on the other page. 

I understand that what I am trying to do, is probably not supported, but would appreciate any suggestions on how to accomplish the above. 

Thanks!

[lauratilton · Accepted solution]

You may just need make your input box a report-level element? Then it will impact the entire report. If you only want the user to see the input box on page 1, just put a box over it on page 2.

[palle_dinesen]

Thank you very much, really appreciate it! That indeed did the trick. I was not aware of that feature for input fields

[lauratilton]

And YES the way to use a parameter in a blend is to make a calculated field that brings in the parameter value, so you're all good there.