Include applied filter settings in Excel and CSV exports (with configuration controls)

[andreebesemer]

Problem Description

Currently, when exporting table charts or dashboard data to Excel (.xlsx) or CSV, Superset only exports the raw filtered data rows. The active filter parameters (native filters, filter bar settings, time ranges, etc.) that generated the specific dataset are lost upon export.

This makes it difficult for recipients of the exported files to understand or verify the context of the data (e.g., which time range, region, or status was selected when the export was triggered).

Proposed Solution / Desired Feature

Enhance the export functionality to include applied filter criteria alongside the exported data:

1. Excel Export (.xlsx):

• Sheet 1: Exported dataset (as currently done).
• Sheet 2 (e.g., Filter Settings or Metadata): A dedicated worksheet listing all active filters applied at the moment of export (e.g., Filter Name, Selected Values, Time Range, Export Timestamp).

2. CSV Export (.csv):

• Option A (Recommended): Bundle the export into a ZIP file containing two CSV files: data.csv and filters.csv.
• Option B: Add commented metadata header lines at the top of the CSV file detailing the active filters (e.g., # Applied Filters: ...).

Configuration & Control Options

To ensure backward compatibility and prevent breaking downstream automated scripts (e.g., automated CSV parsers), the behavior should be configurable:

• Global Feature Flag: A config toggle in superset_config.py (e.g., EXPORT_INCLUDE_FILTER_METADATA = True/False) to enable/disable the feature system-wide.
• Dashboard / Chart / UI Toggle: A checkbox in the export modal or chart/dashboard properties (e.g., "Include filter metadata in export") allowing authors or end users to decide on demand.
• CSV Format Preference: System setting to choose between bundling a ZIP file (two CSVs) vs. adding metadata headers in a single CSV.

Use Case & Impact

• Data Context & Transparency: Recipients can immediately identify the parameters used to generate the report without having to log into Superset.
• Auditability & Traceability: Prevents misunderstandings when comparing exports generated with different filter combinations.
• Backward Compatibility: Configurable controls ensure existing automated integrations relying on standard CSV formats remain unaffected.

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