Re: Dynamic populated multiple choice query parame...

mark_ott · ‎11-12-2025

It is possible to create dynamic parameter lists in Databricks dashboards—so, yes, the documentation is correct, but the crucial detail is that not all data sources or query environments support this feature in the exact same way, and certain limitations or configurations may prevent it from working out of the box.

Databricks Dynamic Parameter Lists Clarification

According to the documentation, dynamic parameters can use query results to populate their value list, for example, using a query like SELECT DISTINCT acquirer FROM .... When configured correctly, this enables dashboards to always reflect the current set of dimension values such as acquirer or input_key_type.

However, dynamic parameter population depends on the dashboard type and the data connection:

For SQL Warehouses (Databricks SQL), this is a supported feature in the Databricks SQL interface.
In the new dashboards (Databricks Workspace "Dashboard" UI, not "Legacy"), parameter values for dropdowns or multi-selects can be populated from query results.
Sometimes, the UI may only give you an option for a static list if the widget or data source is not set up optimally, or if you are operating outside Databricks SQL (e.g., in notebooks).

How It Works (and Why It Might Not)

In Databricks SQL dashboards: You can add a parameter by clicking "Add Parameter" and then selecting "Dynamic", providing your SQL code (like SELECT DISTINCT acquirer FROM ...).
Parameter values: are refreshed every time the dashboard reloads, pulling the current list of distinct values.

Main reasons it may not work:

Permissions: The user must have permission to run the query supplying parameter values.
Data Source Type: The feature is for Databricks SQL Warehouses, not always for clusters or in the notebook UI.
Old Widgets: If using classic widgets in notebook or legacy Dashboards, dynamic parameters are limited or unavailable.
Version: Recent features may not be available if the workspace is behind on updates.

Action Steps to Enable Dynamic Parameter Lists

Create a new parameter in your Dashboard (not notebook) in the Databricks SQL UI.
Choose Dynamic (or similar wording depending on UI).
Input a query like:

sql

SELECT DISTINCT acquirer FROM acquirer_conciliation.final_edge
Use the parameter in your underlying data query with WHERE acquirer IN ({{acquirer}}) syntax.
If it only lets you add static values, check:
- Are you in Databricks SQL, not in the notebook UI?
- Is your workspace updated and does your SQL Warehouse support this?
- Do you have query permissions on the supplying table?

Calculation Correction for Partitions and Filtering

For your percentage measures to remain correct under dashboard filtering, you must:

Apply the filters in the subquery (WHERE clause) that determines your denominator.
Use parameters in the filter, not just straight filters in the dashboard.

For example, your query should reference the parameter directly:

sql

select
    conciliation_status,
    input_key_type,
    input_key,
    acquirer,
    input_date,
    first_effect_date,
    sum(input_amount) as input_amount,
    sum(1) as event_amount,
    sum(input_amount) / sum(sum(input_amount)) over (partition by input_key_type) as input_amount_percentage_per_input_key_type,
    count(*) / sum(count(*)) over (partition by input_key_type) as event_amount_percentage_per_input_key_type
from (
    select 
        /* columns */
    from acquirer_conciliation.final_edge
    where input_date >= :p_input_date.min
      and input_date <= :p_input_date.max
      and acquirer IN ({{acquirer}})
)
group by /* group by columns */

This way, whenever the parameter changes (even if filtered from the dashboard UI), the denominator always represents the filtered set, so the percentages sum up to 100% per partition.

Official Docs

The feature is described in [Databricks documentation for dashboard parameters]. If the feature does not work for you, you may be using an unsupported environment or outdated workspace.

https://docs.databricks.com/aws/en/dashboards/parameters#create-a-dynamic-parameter-list

Summary Table: When Dynamic Parameters Work

Environment	Dynamic Dropdown Supported	Typical Setup Needed
Databricks SQL Dashboard	Yes	Must use Databricks SQL Warehouse
Classic Notebook Widgets	No	Only static/default lists
Legacy Dashboard (Legacy)	Sometimes	May need static values

If you set up as above and still cannot see the option for dynamic parameter lists, confirm with your Databricks Workspace admin or support whether the feature is enabled or your environment is up-to-date.