Author: Saikrishna Bandaru is a Certified Master Anaplanner and Sr. Anaplan consultant.
Introduction: Why Combined Grids matter
With the October 2025 Anaplan release, one of the most impactful enhancements in the UX is the Combined Grids capability. Combined Grids allow page builders to bring together data from up to five modules into a single, unified grid. This transformation enables planners to analyze inputs and attributes side-by-side, reduces UX clutter, and streamlines real-world workflows.
In this article, I cover:
- What Combined Grids are and how they work
- A real-world example using two modules with user dimension
- Benefits for model builders and end users
- Important observations and limitations
- Best-practice recommendations
What Are Combined Grids?
Combined Grids allow page builders to merge multiple modules into one table without creating new hybrid modules in the model. This means you can:
- View data from several modules in one scrollable grid
- Apply filters and sorts to the primary module
- Reduce white space and simplify UX page layout
- Streamline workflows where users need data and inputs together
Real-world example: Combining assignment inputs with attribute data
In my use case, our Commercial / Mid-Market planning process required users to:
- Update assignment fields such as “Assign New Patch” and “Assign to New AE”
- Simultaneously reference descriptive account attributes such as Industry Vertical, Sector, City, and State
These fields lived in two different modules, both sharing the same primary dimension: Accounts.
Module 1: Assignment Module (Account, User Dimension)
Contains editable input fields:
- Assign New Patch
- Assign to New AE
Module 2: Attribute Module (Account Dimension)
Contains descriptive, read-only attributes:
- Industry Vertical
- Industry Sector
- City
- State
- Additional classification attributes
By using Combined Grids, I was able to merge both modules into a single view so planners could make updates while referencing critical context.
How I built the Combined Grid
Step 1: Open the grid card in Designer Mode.
From the UX page, select the grid → "Edit" → open the View panel.
Step 2: Add the second module.
Inside the View Designer:
- Select “Add Grid Section”
- Choose the Attribute Module (Module 2)
- Ensure dimensions align
Step 3: Arrange the layout.
- Editable input fields appear on the left (yellow-highlighted)
- Attribute fields appear on the right
- This side-by-side design creates a natural workflow
Benefits for end users
- One grid instead of multiple stacked grids
- Fewer clicks and less navigation friction
- Faster decision-making with attributes and inputs in one place
- Reduced cognitive load and clearer planning flow
Benefits for model builders
- No need to create additional combined system modules
- Cleaner UX layout with less duplication
- Faster development and maintenance
- Improved scalability for large applications
Observations and challenges to know about
- Filters must be applied in the primary module
: the first (primary) module controls filtering. Additional modules added as grid sections cannot have independent filters. Recommendation:
design and finalize filters in the primary module before adding more grid sections. - Combined Grids cannot be saved as templates (yet)
: Unlike other UX cards, Combined Grids cannot be saved as reusable templates.
Recommendation:
document module combinations and recreate grids carefully when needed.
Best practices for designing Combined Grids
- Align dimensions: ensure modules share a common list or user dimension
- Group fields logically: inputs first, attributes after, validations last
- Highlight editable fields: use color to guide user focus
- Keep it lean: don’t overload grids; consider two Combined Grids if needed
- Validate with real users: test readability and scroll behavior
When to use Combined Grids
Use Combined Grids when:
- Multiple modules represent different aspects of the same object (Account, Product, Territory)
- Users update attributes and review context simultaneously
- UX pages feel cluttered with multiple stacked grids
Avoid them when:
- Modules serve unrelated purposes
- The grid becomes too wide to use comfortably
- Different user personas require separate layouts
Conclusion
The Combined Grids feature is a powerful enhancement that improves both model-building efficiency and user experience. In my FY27 planning example, combining assignment fields and account attributes created a streamlined, intuitive workflow that reduced friction and improved decision accuracy.
Combined Grids eliminate UX clutter, simplify navigation, and create a more unified planning experience -it is a valuable addition that unlocks new design possibilities within the Anaplan UX.
Have you tried Combined Grids in your planning applications yet? I’d love to hear your experiences and learn what workflows you’ve enhanced using this feature!
