Build an AI-Powered CSV Analyst
Watch how Databutton's AI agent creates a conversational data analyst that turns questions into instant insights.
What You'll Learn
Build a complete CSV analysis system where users upload their data files and ask questions in plain English to get instant insights with charts and summaries. This tutorial shows one approach the AI agent took to solve this problem - your build may vary as the agent adapts to your specific needs.
The Problem Business Owners Face
By 2025, over 80% of businesses are adopting conversational AI for data analysis, yet many teams are still stuck staring at spreadsheets trying to make sense of numbers. Every CSV export means hours of filtering, pivot tables, and manual chart creation - time that could be spent on strategy and growth.
According to recent industry research, the biggest challenge isn't access to data - it's the barrier between having a question and getting an answer. Traditional tools require technical skills or waiting for an analyst to be available.
This automation handles the entire workflow:
Uploading CSV data files
Asking questions in natural language
AI creating analysis plans and executing secure queries
Delivering insights through clear summaries and visualizations
Interactive follow-up questions for deeper exploration
Who This Solves Problems For:
Marketing managers who need to understand campaign performance across multiple channels without waiting for the analytics team
Sales leaders who want instant answers about territory performance, pipeline trends, or customer segments
Operations professionals who need to spot patterns in logistics, inventory, or scheduling data
Finance teams who want to explore budget vs. actuals, identify anomalies, or analyze spending patterns
Small business owners who need data-driven decisions but don't have dedicated data analysts
How It Works
The app transforms data exploration into a natural conversation:
Upload: Drop your CSV file onto the page
Ask: Type your question in plain English (e.g., "Which product category had the highest growth?")
Insight: The AI creates a structured analysis plan, executes secure queries, and delivers clear answers with supporting charts and data tables
Explore: Ask follow-up questions to dig deeper into the insights
Unlike generic AI chatbots, this system is purpose-built for data analysis with:
Secure data operations that never modify your original files
Structured planning that shows its work
Clear presentation with bullet points, charts, and evidence tables
Conversation history to track your analysis journey
Start Building
1. Add the tool description
When adding the tool description, explain what it does and who it is for. For example:
An AI-powered CSV analyst that transforms data exploration into natural conversations.
Users upload CSV files → Ask questions in plain English → AI creates analysis plans → Executes secure queries → Delivers insights through summaries, charts, and data tables.
For business professionals who need instant data insights without technical skills or waiting for analysts.
2. Review the plan
The agent will create initial tasks based on your tool description and any uploaded files. Discuss any changes with the agent or manually edit the tasks.
3. Execute each task
Watch your tool come to life as the agent works through each task item.
4. Create new features by discussing your ideas with the agent
Once you have a working tool, you can expand it further by discussing your plans and ideas with the agent. Popular enhancements include:
Export insights to PDF reports
Share analysis sessions with team members
Connect to live data sources instead of file uploads
Schedule automated analysis reports
Clone This App
Ready to build your own conversational data analyst? Clone Data Genie and customize it for your specific use case.
Simply click on the link below to create your own version in your Databutton workspace. You'll get your own database and full control to customize the look and functionality.
Run the first task, this will set up your database and request an API key from OpenAI.
Your app is now fully functional and ready to use as it is or make it bespoke to your own use case.
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