Filter and Rename Fields in IBM SPSS Modeler

To improve your experience using IBM SPSS Modeler, the Version 1 SPSS experts have created various Tech Tips. This Tech Tip shows how to filter and rename fields in IBM SPSS Modeler. 

IBM SPSS Modeler is an extensive predictive analytics platform designed to bring predictive intelligence to decisions made by individuals, groups, systems, and the enterprise. Modeler has an easy-to-use drag-and-drop user interface with a complete set of tools for accessing data, data examination, preparation, modelling, evaluation, and deployment.  

IBM SPSS Modeler users have a complete toolset to build predictive models from start to finish. Modeler uses node-based, visual programming. Users pick nodes from palettes and place them on the stream canvas. Once nodes have been placed on the stream canvas and edited, they can be linked to form a stream. A stream represents a flow of data through several operations (nodes) to a destination that can be in the form of output (either text or chart), a model, or the export of data to another format (e.g., a database).  

Users can filter and rename fields in IBM SPSS Modeler at any point in the predictive modelling process. Users can filter and rename on source nodes and also use the filter node for these tasks. The Filter node can be found on the Field Ops palette. Drag the Filter node onto the stream canvas. You can also double-click the Filter node, which places the node on the stream canvas. Once on the canvas, connect the node to your stream. Double-click on the Filter node to open it up. 

With the Filter node open, click on the arrows to deselect fields. A red X will appear. To rename the field, click in the cell to the right and type in the new field name. Once fields have been filtered or renamed, select OK. This will filter the selected fields and change the field name in the stream. You can also preview your data by clicking the Preview data.