External data sources allow FUSE graphics to display information from spreadsheets and APIs that isn't part of the standard LIGR data model. When you connect an external data source to FUSE, the system reads the header row of your spreadsheet to create named fields that can be referenced in expressions. These external data fields can be mixed with LIGR data expressions in the same graphic, and updates to the external data source are reflected in the graphic without needing to re-publish.

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* Access to the FUSE graphics editor

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* An external data spreadsheet with bracket/round data or other custom information

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* The spreadsheet must include a header row that FUSE can map to field names

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Step 1: Prepare your external data spreadsheet

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Create a spreadsheet with your data. The first row must contain headers that will become field names in FUSE. For example, if building a tournament bracket, use headers like Round1_Team1, Round1_Team2, Round1_Score1. Include all data you need to display in your graphic.

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Step 2: Connect the external data source in FUSE

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In FUSE, navigate to the External Data section and connect your spreadsheet. FUSE reads the header row and creates named fields for each column. You can then reference these fields in expressions.

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Step 3: Reference external data fields in expressions

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For each element in your graphic that should display external data, create an expression that references the corresponding field from the external data source. Use the field names that FUSE created from your spreadsheet headers.

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Step 4: Mix external data with LIGR data expressions

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You can combine external data fields with LIGR platform data in the same graphic. For example, use LIGR data for team names and scores from live matches, while using external data for tournament bracket progression or custom statistics.

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Step 5: Preview and verify data display

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Use the FUSE preview to verify that all data displays correctly. Check that external data fields are populating the correct graphic elements and that the formatting appears as expected.

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External data from spreadsheets updates dynamically. When you change values in the connected spreadsheet, the graphic reflects the new data without requiring you to re-publish. This allows you to update information like tournament brackets or custom statistics during live events without modifying the graphic itself.

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FUSE supports multiple types of external data sources:

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* Google Sheets

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* CSV files

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* API endpoints

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Choose the format that best fits your workflow and data management needs.

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External data spreadsheets must have a header row. FUSE uses these headers as field names for expressions. Without a header row, FUSE cannot create named fields to reference in your graphic expressions.

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