Importing Data into Zoho Analytics: Step-by-Step Guide for Business Reporting

Data is the foundation of every report you create in Zoho Analytics. But before you can start building dashboards and insights, your first step is getting that data into the platform.

Whether your information lives in spreadsheets, databases, cloud drives, or business apps like Zoho CRM or QuickBooks, Zoho Analytics makes it easy to bring everything together in one place.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to import your data into Zoho Analytics, step by step, so you can start analyzing with confidence.

1. Import Data from Files

If your data is stored on your computer or shared as a file, you can upload it directly to Zoho Analytics.

Supported formats include CSV, Excel (XLS/XLSX), JSON, HTML, XML, and OData.

Steps:

1. Open your Zoho Analytics workspace.
2. Click Import Data → From Files.
3. Choose the file from your system or a URL, and follow the on-screen steps to upload.

This is a quick way to import spreadsheets, reports, or exported data from other systems.

2. Import Data from Feeds or URLs

If your data updates frequently and is available online, you can connect it using a feed URL.
For larger datasets or automatic refreshes, use Zoho Databridge — a tool that keeps your data synced securely.
Steps:

1. Go to Import Data → From Feeds..
2. Enter the data feed URL and choose your update schedule

3. Import Data from Cloud Storage

Zoho Analytics connects easily with popular cloud storage platforms like Zoho WorkDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and Amazon S3.
Steps:

1. 1. Click Import Data → From Cloud Storage.
   2. Select your storage platform.
   3. Authorize the connection and pick the files you want to import.

This is especially useful for teams that store reports and data files online.

4. Import Data from Databases

If your business uses databases, either locally hosted or in the cloud, Zoho Analytics can connect to them directly.

Supported databases include MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, Snowflake, Google BigQuery, and many more.
Steps:

1. Select Import Data → From Databases.
2. Choose your database type.
3. Enter your database details or use Zoho Databridge for local servers.

Once connected, Zoho Analytics can automatically fetch and refresh your data.

5. Import Data from Zoho and Other Business Apps

Already using Zoho applications or third-party tools? Zoho Analytics lets you connect to more than 25 popular business apps.
Zoho Apps: Zoho CRM, Books, Desk, Projects, Creator, and more.
Other Apps: Salesforce, HubSpot, QuickBooks, Xero, Google Analytics, Facebook Ads, and others.
Steps:

1. Go to Import Data → From Business Apps.
2. Select the app you want to connect.
3. Authorize and choose the data modules (for example, leads, invoices, or campaigns).

This helps you view all your business data together without manual uploads.

6. Import Using API or Automation Tools

For developers or tech teams, Zoho Analytics also supports:

• Zoho Analytics API – to integrate your own systems or custom apps.
• Zapier and Flatly – to connect with 500+ online tools and automate data syncing.

These are great options for setting up ongoing, automated data transfers.

7. Managing Your Data Sources

After importing, you can manage all your data connections in one place. Zoho Analytics provides a Data Sources page, where you can view, edit, or remove connected sources,  making it easier to keep your workspace organized and up to date.

Conclusion

Importing data into Zoho Analytics is straightforward once you know your source. Whether it’s a file, a database, or an app integration, the platform gives you flexible ways to bring everything together.

Once your data is in, you’re ready to move on to the exciting part of building insightful reports and dashboards that help you make better decisions.