What is Data Formulator?
Data Formulator is an open source AI-powered tool for analysts to explore and visualize data. Starting with data in almost any format (screenshot, text, csv, or database), users can work with AI agents with a novel blended interface that combines user interface interactions and natural language descriptions to communicate intents, control branching exploration directions, and create reports to share their insights. Data Formulator is a research prototype from Microsoft Research.
Problem
Users rely on manual data processing in multiple formats (csv, text, etc.), leading to inefficient exploration and limited collaborative control
Solution
Open-source AI tool blending UI/NLP interfaces for data exploration/visualization, enabling AI-driven exploration with mixed UI/NLP control (e.g., analyze screenshots/text via AI agents)
Customers
Data analysts, researchers at tech companies/enterprises needing iterative data exploration
Unique Features
Combines UI interactions + natural language for branching data exploration; supports multi-format inputs (screenshots, databases)
User Comments
Intuitive AI-driven data exploration
Flexible for ad-hoc analysis
Saves time on formatting
Collaborative report generation
Research-grade prototyping
Traction
Research prototype from Microsoft Research; launched on ProductHunt with 100+ upvotes
Market Size
Global business analytics market projected to reach $30 billion by 2030
