We carefully analyzed our user interactions and found that BI analytics dashboards are among the most frequently requested applications from our generator and AI agent. In response, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to show you how to build an Analytical Business Intelligence Dashboard step-by-step using the Flatlogic generator. This process also applies to AppWizzy, as we are soon migrating completely to the AppWizzy platform.

Live app: https://dashboard-for-philip-v001.dev.flatlogic.app/index.php

Idea & Data

Imagine you want to build an Analytical Dashboard using data stored in CSV or Excel files, in typical table formats. To create this dashboard, begin by creating a new project in Flatlogic and describing your application.

We recommend using our recently introduced LAMP Stack template, designed for professional vibe coding. With this template, you have a dedicated virtual machine (VM) environment under your full control. Powered by Flatlogic’s AI agent, it utilizes Gemini CLI or OpenAI’s Codex internally.

Why use the LAMP stack? It’s excellent for landing pages and simple, classic web apps, powered by PHP, a technology underpinning roughly 80% of the Internet, including platforms like WordPress.

Writing Your Prompt

Here is an example of a straightforward prompt:

I’d like to be able to upload any CSV file and instantly see a simple dashboard. The app should analyze the first 500 rows, guess column types, and then suggest a basic dashboard layout.

We also require persistence, supported by the chosen template. You have complete file storage, allowing you to save files directly on your VM, along with a persistent MySQL database.

Using Voice Input and Defining User Stories

Our recent features include voice input, letting you dictate messages directly. The system follows the classical software development lifecycle, identifying user roles and stories. For simplicity, we begin with a single user story based on the provided description.

The Flatlogic platform features an expectation manager clarifying out-of-the-box features versus those you must build yourself, either manually or with AI assistance. Simply describe your desired changes in the chat.

Behind the Scenes

When you submit your prompt, Flatlogic deploys a dedicated VM hosted on Google Cloud, running a Linux-based OS preconfigured with a LAMP stack. This setup takes under a minute, after which the Flatlogic AI agent continues development using Gemini CLI or Codex.

The result is a professional, SEO-friendly, conservative, and reliable setup, comparable to the legendary Nokia 3310. The generated code is exportable, hosting-independent, and free from third-party dependencies.

Initial Implementation

Once your VM is ready, Flatlogic provides a live URL. At this stage, the core functionality, server-side logic to parse CSV files and analyze their structure, is developed. You can monitor changes in real-time and interact directly with the AI agent, addressing issues and iterating swiftly.

Testing and Refinement

Your first upload attempt may initially encounter errors, such as a 500 server error. If this happens, inform the AI agent directly. It will quickly address and resolve issues.

Upon successful CSV upload, the system automatically identifies column data types, such as dates, text, and numerical values, enabling instant dashboard generation. This functionality relies purely on classical PHP code, programmatically parsing data without AI involvement, though future versions may incorporate AI-driven analytics.

Version Control and Iterations

Flatlogic incorporates professional version control (git). Always remember to save your work, maintain organized iterations. Complex systems evolve through iterations; initial outputs should be refined iteratively via chat interactions and further development cycles.

Quick Customizations

You can easily customize the UI, such as adding logos and favicons hosted directly on your VM, enhancing branding and SEO.

Flexibility with Multiple Data Sources

Flatlogic supports multiple CSV datasets. Whether you upload event records or sales orders, the platform swiftly adjusts and generates appropriate analytical dashboards.

Visual UI Edits with AI

Our screenshot feature enables visual edits. Capture your app’s interface and request AI-driven modifications, like adding geometric shapes or adjusting backgrounds, based solely on visual references.

Complete Development Environment

Your Flatlogic VM comes with integrated tools:

  • Version control system for seamless iterations and rollbacks.
  • Direct GitHub integration.
  • Instant asset hosting and management.
  • Real-time source code editing and updates.

Final Thoughts

Flatlogic’s LAMP stack offers complete ownership and flexibility. Ideal for quick landing pages or detailed analytics dashboards, this stack remains highly relevant, robust, and universally deployable.

This setup exemplifies professional vibe coding, allowing rapid development, real hosting, and easy scalability for practical web applications. We encourage your feedback and support as we continue providing resources to build CRMs, AI chatbots, SaaS platforms, and much more.

Explore the live dashboard: Analytical BI Dashboard