AI tool that turns data into visual stories with insights, interactive charts, customization, and automated updates.
Vendor
AppSumo
Company Website
YouTube
Columns is a cloud‑based AI data‑storytelling platform that transforms structured datasets into narrative visualizations. It supports data sources such as Google Sheets, Notion, Airtable, CSV/TSV files, REST APIs, and SQL databases. Users can explore their data through AI chat, generate visualizations, and customize every element on a flexible design canvas. Stories can be shared publicly or embedded, and scheduled syncing keeps visualizations up to date. The platform is built around conversational data analysis, enabling filtering, styling, and exploration directly through AI‑assisted interactions.
Key Features
AI‑Driven Data Storytelling Creates visual narratives directly from structured data.
- Conversational interface for analysis and insights
- Automatic generation of charts and visual stories
Wide Data Source Support Connects to multiple structured data platforms and formats.
- Google Sheets, Notion, Airtable, REST API, SQL DB
- CSV/TSV and compressed formats for fast uploads
Customizable Visual Canvas Allows full design control over visual stories.
- Edit visual elements manually
- Use AI assistance for styling and layout
Interactive Sharing & Embedding Lets users publish and embed stories anywhere.
- Public share links
- Embeddable visuals that auto‑scale on mobile (16:9 ratio)
Scheduled Data Syncing Keeps visual stories updated with live data.
- Automated refresh schedules
- Ensures data accuracy over time
Scalable Data Handling Handles large datasets efficiently.
- Practical support for millions of rows
- Optimized performance with compressed CSV uploads
Benefits
Faster Insight Generation AI‑assisted exploration reduces analysis time.
- Conversational interface for quick insights
- Automated visual creation speeds up reporting
Improved Data Communication Transforms raw data into understandable visual stories.
- Narrative‑driven outputs for stakeholders
- Fully customizable layouts for clarity
Effortless Collaboration & Sharing Makes presenting and distributing insights simple.
- Public links allow easy viewer access
- Embeddable stories for websites and dashboards
Reliable Live Reporting Ensures visualizations reflect current data.
- Scheduled updates maintain freshness
- Supports large datasets without manual refreshes