# Shopify Filters & Data

The **Filters & Data** area is the main starting point inside the Retail Cloud Connect Shopify App. Merchants use it to control what product data is imported into Google Cloud and how shoppers refine results on search and collection pages.

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## Recommended Order

1. Configure core data mappings in [Catalog Import](/shopify/filters-and-data/catalog-import/)
2. Confirm the right shopper-facing filters in [App Block Filters](/shopify/filters-and-data/app-block-filters/)
3. Normalize inconsistent values with [Color Families](/shopify/filters-and-data/color-families/) or [Merged Filter Values](/shopify/filters-and-data/merged-filter-values/) when needed
4. Add translations for App Block copy, filter labels, and filter values with [Translations](/shopify/translations/)
5. Use [Layout Settings](/shopify/theme-installation/layout-settings/) to control how those filters render on the storefront

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## Advanced Storefront Filter Hooks

Most filters should be configured in the app. Use [Custom and Default Filters](/shopify/filters-and-data/custom-and-default-filters/) only for hidden request filters or custom storefront switches that cannot be represented as normal facets.

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For variant expansion, SEO descriptions, or exclusion rules, continue with [Advanced Settings](/shopify/advanced-settings/).