Discover a new interactive tool that seamlessly combines dashboards and notebooks for better data visualization. Dive into HTML resources perfect for web development beginners, reflecting on its evolution. Learn about supportive educational materials for teaching Python, particularly in web programming. Enhance your CI efficiency with innovative GitHub Actions while monitoring performance using Scout APM. Finally, enjoy a light-hearted take on programming culture with some fun and humor sprinkled throughout!
Briefer uniquely combines notebooks and dashboards, enhancing user interaction and simplifying database queries for effective data analysis.
A new resource for learning Python focuses on beginners, offering an accessible approach to foundational programming concepts through an interactive web platform.
Deep dives
Briefer: Enhancing Data Visualization
Briefer is introduced as an innovative tool that combines the functionalities of data notebooks and dashboards in a single platform, aimed at providing an interactive experience for users. Unlike traditional Jupyter notebooks, Briefer allows users to connect directly to databases, simplifying data queries and visualizations without embedding sensitive credentials within the notebooks themselves. The platform is open-source, enabling users to self-host their projects while maintaining flexibility in sharing with teams or clients. Notably, Briefer includes features like sliders and date pickers for dynamic interactions, enhancing its utility for non-developers who seek to explore complex data analyses.
Web-Based Python Learning Resource
A new web-based resource for learning Python is highlighted, catering especially to beginners who may not have access to comprehensive programming courses. It focuses on teaching fundamental concepts without overloading learners with extensive technical details, making it suitable for those embarking on their programming journey. Utilizing the Corto Publishing System, the platform allows Python code to run directly in the browser, enhancing the interactive learning experience. It also promotes open-source principles, enabling customization for educators and learners alike to tailor the content for specific needs.
Streamlining CI with GitHub Actions
A new GitHub Action called setup-uv facilitates efficient Continuous Integration (CI) processes by improving the installation and caching of dependencies. This tool allows developers to manage specific versions of UV and speed up subsequent workflows by caching previously installed components, reducing the strain on PyPI and enhancing build times. By streamlining these processes, it helps developers save valuable time and resources during project development. This action is particularly beneficial for those using GitHub Actions extensively, as it optimizes CI workflows and ensures faster project delivery.
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Notebooks and dashboards with Python, SQL, scheduling, native visualizations, code generation, and more.
In Briefer, you can:
Create notebooks and dashboards using Markdown, Python, SQL, and native visualizations.
Build interactive data apps using inputs, dropdowns, and date pickers.
Generate code and queries using an AI that understands your database schema and your notebook's context.
Schedule notebooks and dashboards to run and update periodically.
Create and test ad-hoc pipelines using writebacks.
Briefer vs. Traditional BI Tools: Briefer is better than traditional BI tools because it's faster and more flexible, thanks to Python.
Briefer vs. Traditional Notebooks: In Briefer, you can run SQL queries against connected data sources directly in your notebook. Then, Briefer will automatically turn your query into a data frame and store it in a variable that you can use in your Python blocks.
“Python intro aimed at students with no prior programming experience.”
“Relies mainly on examples and exercises.”
“Does not try to cover every detail of the Python language, but just what a beginner might need to start the journey.”
Tech: “… built with the quarto publishing system complemented by the quarto live extension that allows Python to run in the web browser by using pyodide.”
Runs on anything, since it doesn’t require a local install of Python
Running 3.12.1, looks like. Although that’s a bit hidden. Seems like it should be more visible.