Why ease of use is critical in ad-hoc reporting apps

The ad-hoc reporting capabilities of modern business intelligence apps are a key differentiator in the market.

Business users want to spend less time creating ad-hoc reports and more time analyzing them, so when considering ad-hoc reporting functionality, it is important to focus on ease of use. For modern companies, a business intelligence (BI) platform must be easy to use and quickly customizable/modifiable for modern companies.

The ad-hoc reporting functionality of the app should allow users to easily drag and drop data fields, change visualizations, and filter data on the fly. This type of flexibility is essential for business users who need to create ad-hoc reports quickly.

In this article, we will take a look at the top features you should look for in an ad-hoc reporting app that ensures ease of use for all of your business users, from those who are new to the app to seasoned experts.

In addition, we will look at a few real-world examples of companies deploying BI apps that offer easy ad-hoc reporting capabilities.
 

 

What are ad-hoc reports, and why are they important?

Ad-hoc reports are reports that are created on the fly, often in response to a specific need or question. They differ from pre-defined reports, which are typically designed and saved by analysts ahead of time.

The purpose of ad-hoc reporting is to give business users the ability to quickly create customized reports without needing to go through an analyst. This allows business users to get the data they need in a format that meets their specific needs without waiting for someone else to create the report.

Ad-hoc reporting is important because it gives business users more control over their data and allows them to quickly get relevant insights.

It is an essential part of any BI tool because it facilitates quick iteration and enables business users to get the data they need without waiting on a report from someone else.
 

The importance of ease of use when creating ad-hoc reports

It is important to consider the ease of use when creating ad-hoc reports because it will streamline the reporting process for business users.

Ad-hoc reporting should be quick and easy, allowing users to quickly create their reports without extensive training or knowledge about using the tool.

When ease of use is a high priority, business users can spend more time analyzing their data and less time trying to figure out how to use the tool.

In addition, when ease of use is a focus, it can help reduce user error. When reports are easy to create, there is less chance for mistakes since users will not need to fumble with complex tools or processes to create the report.
 

Top features to look for in an ad-hoc reporting app

When considering ease of use when it comes to an ad-hoc reporting application, there are several key features you should look for.

Here are some of the top features you should look for when choosing an ad-hoc reporting app:

1. Drag and drop data fields

The ability to drag and drop data fields is essential for business users who need to create reports quickly. Being able to move data around easily allows users to quickly assemble their reports without spending time re-sorting the data.

2. Visualizations

A variety of different visualizations should be available to users to choose which one is best for their report.

Visualization options give business users a lot of flexibility when creating reports and allow them to easily showcase the information that’s most relevant to them in an easy way for their audience to understand.

3. Data filtering

Being able to easily filter your report is an important part of creating ad-hoc reports, especially if the answers you are looking for change based on other factors that can’t be predicted ahead of time (i.e., seasonal trends).

Business users should have the ability to quickly and easily filter their data so they can get the most relevant insights from their reports.

4. Embedded analytics

Embedding analytics into your existing applications is another essential feature that should be considered when choosing an ad-hoc reporting application.

Business users need to be able to analyze data without having to switch between screens quickly, so embedding analytic capabilities directly into their workflows will give them quick access to insights whenever they need it.

Analytics should be quick and easy to navigate, with a variety of different visualizations and data filters available so business users can create reports that meet their specific needs.

Additionally, the app should embed analytics directly into your existing applications or sites for a quick and easy way to get insights whenever you need them.
 

 

Choosing the right ad-hoc reporting app

It is vital for businesses to have access to an ad-hoc reporting application that allows them the flexibility and ease of use they need to get insights from their data without needing extensive training or knowledge about how to use the tool.

Knowing the top features to look for in an ad-hoc reporting app will make it easier for you to choose the right tool for your needs. However, choosing a quick and easy-to-use tool that gives you a variety of visualization options, and allows for embedded analytics, will ensure that your business users can create reports quickly.

Ease of use should be considered when choosing an ad-hoc reporting application because it will make it simpler for business users to get the data they need without waiting on another report from someone else.

Additionally, when business users can quickly and easily filter their data, they can get more relevant insights from their reports.
 

Conclusion

Companies that choose an ad-hoc reporting application that is quick and easy to use will ensure their business users can create reports quickly without needing extensive training or knowledge about how the tool works.

By taking the time to research and invest in an ad-hoc reporting application that is easy to use, your business users will be able to quickly create reports that meet their specific needs without waiting on someone else. Additionally, embedded analytics capabilities will give them quick access to insights whenever they need them.