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Announcing DataTables 3.3: New data processing mode for light-speed navigation

We’re excited to announce the release of DataTables 3.3. This update sees the addition of client-side data processing, resulting in near-instantaneous updates when filtering, sorting or searching through your data! You will love this update. It’s transformative. Let’s take a closer look. ⚡ Preload...

Casey Burridge

by

Casey Burridge

Strategic Growth & Operations Manager

DataTables 3.3: New data processing mode for light-speed loading

We’re excited to announce the release of DataTables 3.3. This update sees the addition of client-side data processing, resulting in near-instantaneous updates when filtering, sorting or searching through your data!

You will love this update. It’s transformative. Let’s take a closer look.

⚡ Preload your data for instant-updating tables

Previously, DataTables would send a request to the web server every time there was a change in the data being displayed. This would result in a slight delay when performing searches or filtering/sorting the data in any way.

Inspired by feedback we received from some of our GravityView power users, we added the option to preload data in a View, resulting in near-instantaneous data navigation!

To enable this new option, scroll down to the View settings, click on the “DataTables” tab, and select “Preloaded (Client-side)” under where it says “Data Processing Mode”:

An option titled 'Data Processing Mode' with two options: AJAX or Preloaded

Check out the short video below to see just how fast DataTables updates when data is preloaded:

You’re probably wondering, “if this new option makes DataTables so much faster, why not make it the default?” We want to make sure it’s the right choice because there are some potential drawbacks. We have a helpful doc that goes into more detail on the advantages and disadvantages of preloading data, but briefly:

  • The initial loading of the page may take longer.
  • Preloading data may cause issues if your View holds a large number of entries, especially for users with slow computers.
  • The DataTables Auto-Update feature will not work when data is preloaded.

Having said all this, we might end up making this the default setting. Having instant filtering and sorting makes for an incredible user experience, ensuring you can effortlessly access the information you need. Email us to let us know what you think!

New option for per-column field filtering

Enabling field filters in DataTables adds a filter inside each of your table columns, making it easier to drill down into your data. In DataTables 3.3, we’ve added a new option allowing you enable field filters on a per-column basis!

A multi-select field for choosing which fields should include a filter

Update GravityView DataTables now

Our new DataTables 3.3 update sees the addition of a new data processing mode, resulting in near-instantaneous updates when filtering, sorting or searching through your data!

You can update DataTables from the “Manage Your Kit” page in your WordPress Admin dashboard. To see the full release, check out the official changelog.

A special thanks 🎩

We have considered this feature for years, but it never would have happened without the active advocacy, detailed feedback, and persistent testing of Rochelle Victor. Thank you for your help 🙏

Casey Burridge

by

Casey Burridge

Casey is a full-stack marketer who employs a systems approach to connect strategy, execution, and long-term growth. With a background spanning technical consulting, adtech, and open-source ecosystems like WordPress, Casey brings a deep understanding of the platforms that power the modern web. Casey holds a Master of Science in Information Systems Management from Salford Business School, where his thesis explored the role of systems thinking in strategic marketing decisions.

Strategic Growth & Operations Manager

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