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JavaScript vs SQL

Dataform is a platform built on Node.js that helps you template SQL code, similar to how dbt templates SQL with Jinja.

Available Approaches​

Dataform supports both JavaScript and SQL, giving you multiple architectural options:

  • Full JavaScript - Maximum programmability and dynamic logic
  • Full SQL - Traditional SQL-first approach with minimal templating
  • Hybrid - Combining both technologies strategically

Our Architectural Decision​

GA4Dataform uses a "SQL as base, JavaScript as helpers" approach. This means:

  • SQLX files contain the actual data transformation logic in SQL
  • JavaScript handles configuration, helpers, and complex templating
  • Module configuration uses JavaScript (.js), JSON (.json), or YAML (.yaml) files

Why This Approach?​

SQL Remains Transparent The core transformation logic stays in SQL, making it easy to understand, debug, and modify without deep JavaScript knowledge.

Accessible to Analysts Most analytics professionals work primarily with SQL. This approach ensures GA4Dataform is accessible to SQL-focused teams while still providing JavaScript's power when needed.

Easy Customization You can customize your setup through configuration files (includes/custom/modules/) while keeping transformation logic readable and familiar.

Better Control SQL handles data transformations while JavaScript manages the dynamic aspects like configuration variables, module dependencies, and conditional logic.

How JavaScript Is Used​

JavaScript serves specific purposes in GA4Dataform:

Configuration Management

  • Module configurations: includes/custom/modules/{module_name}/config.js
  • Variables and parameters that control data transformations

Helper Functions

  • Utilities that generate SQL code patterns
  • Reusable logic for common operations
  • Functions that make SQLX files more readable

Dynamic SQL Generation

  • Complex templating when pure SQL isn't sufficient
  • Conditional table creation based on configuration
  • Parameter-based SQL generation

Module System

  • Module dependency management
  • Feature toggles and version control
  • Standardized structure across all modules