Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence Reporting
Version 7.3
Intermediate Manual
Contents
WELCOME ...............................................................................................................................................5
Course Pre-requisites ...............................................................................................................................5
Course Objectives ....................................................................................................................................5
How to Use the Curriculum .......................................................................................................................5
Document Conventions ............................................................................................................................5
Course Outline .........................................................................................................................................6
Sample Company Information ..................................................................................................................6
LESSON 1: UNDERSTANDING THE EXCEL WORKBOOK CREATED WHEN RUNNING REPORTS ...7
The Structure of a Standard Report Workbook .........................................................................................7
Sheet1 .................................................................................................................................................. 7
Sheet2 .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Sheet3 and Beyond ............................................................................................................................... 9
The Structure of a Union Report Workbook ............................................................................................ 10
Sheet1 ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Sheet2 ................................................................................................................................................ 11
Sheet3 and Beyond ............................................................................................................................. 12
LESSON 2: CREATING A SINGLE PAGE VIEW OF THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ........... 13
Benefits of a Dashboard ......................................................................................................................... 13
How to Create a Dashboard ................................................................................................................... 15
Create the Appropriate PivotTables (Chart Data): ............................................................................... 15
Create the Corresponding PivotCharts ................................................................................................ 18
Format the Dashboard ........................................................................................................................ 20
Add Slicers to your Dashboard ............................................................................................................ 20
LESSON 3: PROTECTING THE EXCEL REPORT FROM BEING EDITED ........................................... 22
Applying Protection in the Report Manager ............................................................................................ 22
LESSON 4: HIDING OR DISCARDING INSIGNIFICANT ROWS IN A REPORT TEMPLATE ................ 24
What is the ZeroingII Add-In Function?................................................................................................... 24
Why use the ZeroingII Add-In Function?................................................................................................. 24
Preparing your report for the ZeroingII Add-In Function .......................................................................... 25
2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting
Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual
Page 2 of 64
Creating a New Total Column in Excel ................................................................................................ 25

Configuring the ZeroingII Add-In Function .............................................................................................. 26
LESSON 5: COPYING AN EXCEL FORMULA TO NEW ROWS............................................................ 28
What is the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows Function? .............................................................................. 28
Why use the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows Function? ............................................................................ 28
Configuring the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows Add-In Function .............................................................. 28
LESSON 6: SCHEDULING A REPORT TO RUN ................................................................................... 30
Specifying the Output Location of the Report ......................................................................................... 31
Generating the Scheduler Command ..................................................................................................... 32
Setting up the Windows Scheduled Task................................................................................................ 32
LESSON 7: COPYING REPORT TEMPLATES TO/FROM OTHER SAGE INTELLIGENCE USERS ..... 33
Exporting a Report from the Report Manager ......................................................................................... 33
Importing a Report Using the Report Manager ....................................................................................... 34
LESSON 8: ALLOWING REPORT TEMPLATES TO BE ACCESSED BY MULTIPLE USERS .............. 36
The Benefits of the MetaData Repository ............................................................................................... 36
LESSON 9: SENDING REPORTS TO OTHERS .................................................................................... 38
What is Report Distribution? ................................................................................................................... 38
Distribution Settings: Allowing Sage Intelligence Reporting to Email Reports ......................................... 39
Manage Distribution Instructions............................................................................................................. 40
Adding Distribution Instructions .............................................................................................................. 41
Sending a Report using Email ............................................................................................................. 42
Sending a Report to a File ................................................................................................................... 47
Sending a Report Using FTP............................................................................................................... 48
Editing Distribution Instructions .............................................................................................................. 49
Select Instructions: Linking the Distribution Instructions to a Report ....................................................... 50
Automating Distribution .......................................................................................................................... 52
Running the Distribution Instruction ........................................................................................................ 52
Preserving Formulas when Distributing Reports ..................................................................................... 53
Unlocking cells or ranges .................................................................................................................... 53
Hiding formulas ................................................................................................................................... 53
Password Protecting the worksheet .................................................................................................... 54
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LESSON 10: BEST PRACTICE .............................................................................................................. 56

Parameters............................................................................................................................................. 56
Union Reports ........................................................................................................................................ 57
Union Sub Reports .............................................................................................................................. 58
Excel Template....................................................................................................................................... 59
Excel Formatting ................................................................................................................................. 59
PivotTable ........................................................................................................................................... 60
Pivot Charts ........................................................................................................................................ 62
HOW CAN I GET ASSISTANCE WHILST WORKING? .......................................................................... 63
IS THERE ANOTHER WAY TO CREATE CUSTOMIZED FINANCIAL REPORTS?............................... 64
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Welcome
The Sage Intelligence Intermediate course is designed to familiarize you with Sage Intelligence
Reporting beyond the basics.
Course Pre-requisites
A basic understanding of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Windows is required.
Completion of the Sage Intelligence Reporting Beginners course or be familiar with the basics of Sage
Intelligence Reporting including how to create standard and union reports and how to apply aggregate
filters and functions.
Course Objectives
The objective of this course is to provide you with an overview of intermediate report writing techniques
in Sage Intelligence Reporting. You will explore the power of this tool and gain insight into your
business.
Topics covered include:
Creating Dashboards
Scheduling Reports
Sharing Reports
Best Practices
How to Use the Curriculum

In addition to this course been completed, an online assessment will be required to be passed in order to
obtain your course certificate.
Document Conventions
Sage Intelligence uses the Microsoft Manual of Style (MMOS), Third Edition, as its corporate authority
for technical terminology and references to user interface elements as well as terms approved by the
Sage Softwares Training Council or the CSC for references to specific training types, individual roles,
certification terms, and specific elements of the curriculum.
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Course Outline
This course is divided into lessons. Each lesson is designed to provide you with practical knowledge
and experience that can be applied to your specific needs.
This course includes the following lessons:
Lesson
Purpose
Lesson 1: Understanding The Excel

Workbook Created When Running
Reports
This lesson introduces the structure of a standard and union

report excel workbook.
Lesson 2: Creating a Single Page View

of The Most Important Information
This lesson demonstrates how to create a dashboard.
Lesson 3: Protecting The Excel Report

From Being Edited
This lesson demonstrates how to protect the Excel report

from being edited.
Lesson 4: Hiding or Discarding

Insignificant Rows in a Report Template
This lesson demonstrates how to hide or discard insignificant

rows in report templates using the ZeroingII function.
Lesson 5: Copying an Excel Formula to

New Rows
This lesson demonstrates how to use the

ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows function to copy excel
formulas to all new rows.
Lesson 6: Scheduling a Report to Run
This lesson demonstrates how to schedule a report to run at

a later time.
Lesson 7: Copying Report Templates

to/from other Sage Intelligence Users
This lesson introduces the export and import function.
Lesson 8: Allowing Report Templates to

be Accessed by Multiple Users
This lesson introduces the metadata and how to share it to

allow report templates to be accessed by multiple users.
Lesson 9: Sending Reports To Others
This lesson demonstrates the distribution options to send

reports via email, ftp or export to a file.
Lesson 10: Best Practice
This lesson introduces all of the recommended methods to

create the most efficient reports.
Sample Company Information

The exercises have been created based on the sample company RKL Trading provided with Sage
Intelligence Reporting software.
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Lesson 1: Understanding the Excel Workbook Created When

Running Reports
Objective: This lesson will familiarize you with the following:
the structure of a standard report workbook
the structure of a union report workbook
Knowing the structure of a report workbook is important to the successful creation of a template for a
Sage Intelligence Reporting report.
The Structure of a Standard Report Workbook

When a Standard Report is run and output to Excel, the first two worksheets or tabs inside the workbook
are created: Sheet1 and Sheet2.
Sheet1
The first worksheet contains the raw data (also called Source Data) retrieved from the database. It may
be filtered, sorted or otherwise manipulated based on the properties of the report defined in the Report
Manager.
NOTE: Its very important to note that the name of the first worksheet doesnt have to be named
Sheet1. The important thing is that its position is the first worksheet (left-most worksheet) in the
workbook.
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WARNING: The first worksheet is often hidden as this data shouldnt be modified, as it will always be
overwritten when the report is re-run.
Each column of the first worksheet is given a range name in Excel, and additional range names are
defined in this worksheet as well, for easier reporting and reference when creating Pivot Tables and
conducting other analysis based on this data. The names are assigned based on the names of the
columns in the Report Manager.
Sheet2
By default, the second worksheet contains the parameters of the report.
An example is shown below.
The date the report is run on, the parameters defined in Report Manager and other important information
is also included here. Often the parameters are referenced in the title areareport header of the report to
provide dynamic information based on data entered at run-time.
NOTE: The name of the parameters worksheet doesnt have to be Sheet2. The important thing is
that its position is the second worksheet in the workbook.
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Sheet3 and Beyond

The remaining worksheets in the workbook can contain charts, graphs, Pivot Tables and other report
analysis to further analyze the raw data from the Source Data worksheet (the first worksheet). Multiple
worksheets can be used to provide varying analysis of the data, and any Excel functionality can be used,
thus unleashing the true power of Sage Intelligence Reporting.
NOTE: The names of the additional worksheets dont have to be Sheet3, Sheet4 etc. The important
thing is that their position is after the second worksheet in the workbook.
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The Structure of a Union Report Workbook

When a Union Report is run and output to Excel, the first two worksheets inside the workbook are
created: Sheet1 and Sheet2.
Sheet1
The first worksheet contains the raw data (also called Source Data) retrieved from the database. It may
be filtered, sorted or otherwise manipulated based on the properties of the report defined in the Report
Manager. By default, the data from the Union Sub Reports are displayed in the same worksheet. This
behavior can be overridden by setting the Output Sheet property for the individual union sub reports in
the Report Manager.
NOTE: Its very important to note that the name of the first worksheet doesnt have to be named
Sheet1. The important thing is that its position is the first worksheet (left-most worksheet) in the
workbook.
WARNING: The first worksheet is often hidden as this data shouldnt be modified, as it will always be
overwritten when the report is re-run.
Each column of the first worksheet is given a range name in Excel, and additional range names are
defined in this worksheet as well, for easier reporting and reference when creating Pivot Tables and
conducting other analysis based on this data. The names are assigned based on the names of the
columns in the Report Manager.
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Sheet2
By default, the second worksheet contains the parameters of the report. An example is shown below.
The date the report is run on, the parameters defined in Report Manager and other important information
is also included here. Often the parameters are referenced in the report header of the report to provide
dynamic information based on data entered at run-time.
NOTE: The name of the parameters worksheet doesnt have to be Sheet2. The important thing is
that its position is the second worksheet in the workbook.
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Sheet3 and Beyond

The remaining worksheets in the workbook can contain charts, graphs, Pivot Tables and other report
analysis to further analyze the raw data from the Source Data worksheet (the first worksheet). Multiple
worksheets can be used to provide varying analysis of the data, and any Excel functionality can be used,
thus unleashing the true power of Sage Intelligence Reporting.
NOTE: The names of the additional worksheets dont have to be Sheet3, etc. The important thing is
that their position is after the second worksheet in the workbook.
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Lesson 2: Creating a Single Page View of the Most Important

Information
the benefits of a Dashboard
how to create PivotTables
how to create Pivot Charts
how to create Slicers
how to create a Dashboard
Business Intelligence is a hot commodity in todays world and dashboards are the most frequently used
method of providing that information.
Benefits of a Dashboard
A dashboard is a collection of charts and graphs providing visual indicators about key information of a
business much like the dashboard of a vehicle.
Dashboards offer the following benefits:
A real-time overview of the overall health of your business at a glance.
Critical information in one location to help business owners make better, faster, and smarter
decisions for a significant competitive advantage.
Makes critical information readily available, improving collaboration and productivity.
Access to real-time business information, across multiple companies, divisions, and databases, to
improve business decisions.
Dashboards can utilize slicers. Slicers are easy-to-use filtering components that contain a set of buttons
that enable you to quickly filter the data in a PivotTable report, without the need to open drop-down lists
to find the items that you want to filter.
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The following are examples of dashboards created with Sage Intelligence Reporting data.
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How to Create a Dashboard

To create a dashboard using Sage Intelligence Reporting, we begin with PivotTables. After the report
runs, each of the areas that are shown in the dashboard (such as Top 5 Customers or Items) has an
associated PivotTable. The PivotTable can be shown on the dashboard or hidden on another
worksheet. From the PivotTable, a PivotChart is created. Finally, the dashboard is formatted for
greatest visible impact.
NOTE: A PivotChart is connected to a PivotTable and is thus updated when the PivotTable layout is
changed.
To create a dashboard, do the following:

1.
Identify the Sage Intelligence Reporting report that contains the data youd like to base your
dashboard on.
2.
Copy and paste the report.
3.
Rename the copied report (Accept the name change for the template)
4.
Right-click on the report and select Unlink Template to remove the template so that only the raw
data is sent to Excel when the report runs.
5.
Click Yes to confirm
6.
Run the report out to Excel.
7.
Enter any report parameters if required.
8.
The raw data is placed, by default on the first sheet of the workbook. Select Sheet1.
Create the Appropriate PivotTables (Chart Data):

9.
Whilst on the first worksheet in the workbook, click on the Insert tab and click PivotTable. As an
example, we will begin with the Top 5 Customers table.
10. For the Table/Range field, press the F3 key and select the RawData range name and click OK.
11. For the location of the PivotTable, select Existing Worksheet, then browse to Sheet3, cell A1.
12. Click OK to create the PivotTable.
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13. Drag-and-drop the required fields into the appropriate locations in the PivotTable Field List as per
example below.
14. Filter the Customers to show top 5 by sales, by selecting the drop down arrow next to the Row
Labels at the top of the PivotTable, and select Value Filters > Top 10.
15. On the Top 10 Filter window that appears, select to show the Top 5 Items by the Total Sales
(While this appears to be referencing item numbers, Excel is calling the values in the rows items.)
Example below:
16. By default, the customer records are listed alphabetically. To change the sorting to be ascending by
the sale amount, click the drop down arrow next to Row Labels again, select More Sort Options.
17. Change the sorting to be ascending by the Total Sale amount. Click the drop down arrow next to
Row Labels again, and select More Sort Options.
18. Select to Sort Ascending (A to Z) by the Total Sale and click OK.
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19. Rename the Row Labels field to Customers so its easier to identify the values on the PivotTable
later.
20. Now create the Sales by Rep PivotTable by going to Sheet1 and clicking on the Insert tab, and
clicking PivotTable.
21. For the Table/Range field, press the F3 key and select the RawData range name and click OK.
22. For the location of the PivotTable, select Existing Worksheet, then browse to Sheet3, cell D1.
24. Drag-and-drop the appropriate fields into the appropriate locations in the PivotTable Field List.
25. To change the sorting to be ascending by the Total Sale amount, click the drop down arrow next to
Row Labels, select More Sort Options.
26. Select to Sort Ascending (A to Z) by the total sale amount and click OK.
27. Rename the Row Labels field to Salespeople.
28. Return to Sheet1 to begin creating the PivotTable for Top Products.
29. Click the Insert tab, and click PivotTable.
30. For the Table/Range field, press the F3 key and select the RawData range name.
31. For the location of the PivotTable, select Existing Worksheet, then browse to Sheet3, cell G1.
33. Drag-and-drop the appropriate fields into the appropriate locations in the PivotTable Field List.
34. To filter the Product Name to show top 5 by sales, select the drop down arrow next to the Row
Labels at the top of the PivotTable, and select Value Filters > Top 10.
35. On the Top 10 Filter window that appears, select to show Top 5 Items by Sum of TotalSale.
36. To change the sorting to be ascending by the Total Sale amount, click the drop down arrow next to
Row Labels again, select More Sort Options.
37. Select to Sort Ascending (A to Z) by the Total Sale amount and click OK.
38. Change the Row Labels field to Top Products.
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Create the Corresponding PivotCharts

These are a little different than regular charts, because they directly correspond to a PivotTable and
are updated accordingly.
39. First, we must have a worksheet open to put the Charts on, so click on the New sheet button to
create Sheet4.
40. Rename Sheet4 to Dashboard.
41. To create the first PivotChart, go to Sheet3 and click in any field within the Customers PivotTable.
42. Click on the Analyze tab (part of the special PivotTable Tools tab or Options Tab in Excel 2010)
and click PivotChart in the Tools group.
43. Select a chart type and click OK.
44. The chart will most likely appear right in the middle of the sheet, however, we want this in the
Dashboard worksheet, so right-click on the chart and select Move Chart.
45. In the Move Chart window select Object in Dashboard and click OK.
The chart will be moved to the Dashboard worksheet.

46. To change the title of the chart, select the current heading of the chart (Total) and type the new
name. For example, Top 5 Customers.
47. Right-click and select Hide all Field Buttons on Chart
Repeat the process for the remaining 2 charts, using the steps that follow:
48. To create the next PivotChart, go to Sheet3 and click in any field within the SalesRep PivotTable.
49. Click the Analyze tab and select PivotChart in the Tools group.
50. Select a chart type and click OK.
51. Right-click on the chart and select to Move Chart to the Dashboard worksheet.
52. Change the title of the chart Top 5 Salespeople
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53. You may also change the design to a different style. For example below:
54. To create the next PivotChart, go to Sheet3 and click in any field within the Top Products
PivotTable.
55. Click on the Analyze tab and select PivotChart in the Tools group.
56. Change the chart type and click OK.
57. Right-click on the chart and move it to the Dashboard worksheet.

58. Change the title of the chart and hide the chart fields you can also change the style design.
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Format the Dashboard

59. You can add your company logo or contact details and also format and customize the dashboard
look and feel to your specific requirements.
An example is shown below:
Add Slicers to your Dashboard

60. You will be needing Excel 2010 or later to add slicers. Select the Dashboard worksheet and select a
pivot chart.
62. Click the Analyze tab, and select Insert Slicer.
63. Select fields from the list which youd like to filter on well select salesperson, and click OK.
64. Position the slicer to the side of the chart.
65. To create a connection between the slicers and more than one chart, right-click the slicer and select
Report connections.
66. Select the charts youd like the slicer to be applicable to.
67. Highlight one of the slicer buttons, and notice how the charts change to show only the sales related
to the particular salesperson we have selected.
68. The last step is to save the excel template. Return to the Report Manager, select the correct
report and click Save Excel Template.
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69. Select the correct Excel workbook and click ok.

70. If the report has Parameters it will ask if it can clear the second sheet of your workbook, click
Yes
71. Select the new Excel Template format of *.xltx for the template so that the slicers will work
and click OK.
72. Click OK on the Specify Template Name to save changes to the template.
73. If the Confirm message appears and asks if you want to switch off the Save Data with Table Layout
click Yes.
74. Click Yes to allow the external data contents to be cleared.
75. Now if we run the report, you will see our dashboard as we formatted it.
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Lesson 3: Protecting the Excel Report from Being Edited
applying protection in the Report Manager
removing protection from a worksheet
If you want to protect your report from being edited, applying protection will prevent anyone from
changing the format or the data itself.
Applying Protection in the Report Manager

By applying protection in the Report Manager, every time the report is run, protection will automatically
be enabled in Excel.
1.
In the Report Manager, select the relevant report.
2.
Under Properties, select Show Advanced.
3.
Select Protect The Output Book.
4.
Select Apply.
5.
As soon as its applied, a field called Output Book Protection Password will appear. We
recommend that you enter your own password into this field so that youre able to unprotect the
workbook or worksheet later if you want to edit it. The password you enter will be case sensitive.
6.
Click Apply again to save your password.
7.
Now run the report as normal.
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When attempting to edit anything on the sheet, the following message will appear.
This applies to data input or formatting changes. In the menu, you will notice all of the editing features
are also disabled.
Removing protection from a worksheet

1.
In Excel, on the Review tab, in the Changes group, click Unprotect Sheet.
NOTE: The Protect Sheet option changes to Unprotect Sheet when a worksheet is protected.
2.
When prompted, type the password to unprotect the worksheet.
3.
Click OK.
All of the PivotTable and PivotChart tools will now be enabled and you can make changes.
In the next two lessons, you are going to learn how to use add-ins. Add-ins are functions which you can
set to automatically execute in Excel after a report is run.
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Lesson 4: Hiding or Discarding Insignificant Rows in a Report

Template
what the ZeroingII add-In function is
how to prepare your report to use the ZeroingII function
how to configure the ZeroingII add-in function
Add-ins are functions which you can set to automatically execute in Excel when a report is run.
What is the ZeroingII Add-In Function?

The ZeroingII add-in is part of the General Excel Extensions add-In library module and is used when
you dont want insignificant rows to be visible in your reports.
Why use the ZeroingII Add-In Function?

A report can contain rows of data which have no influence on the report. By hiding these rows, your
report will be concise, neater and easier to interpret. ZeroingII is most commonly used to hide rows
when there are zero values in all of the columns. In the following example an income statement was
created without using the ZeroingII add-in and then rerun with the ZeroingII add-in configured. Notice all
of the highlighted rows which had no value have been hidden.
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Preparing your report for the ZeroingII Add-In Function

Its best to create a new column that totals the data (using the Sum function) and use the new total
column in the ZeroingII Column to Check parameter. That way only rows that have zero values in all
columns will be hidden.
Creating a New Total Column in Excel
We will use the SUM function which will add the numbers in a range of cells.
Its syntax is:
=SUM(number1, number2,...number30).
The arguments (e.g. number1) for the SUM function can be cell references, or typed into the formula.
The following example uses one argument -- a reference to cells F9:H9.
1.
Select the blank cell in a new column after the cells that you want to sum, cell J9 in this example.
2.
In the formula bar, type the sum function to include all of the columns you require, for
example, =SUM(F9:H9)
3.
Press the Enter key.
4.
Use the fill handle to drag the formula down to include all of the rows you require.
5.
In rows where youd like to leave a blank row for formatting purposes, replace the formula with an X.
6.
To hide the total column you just created so its not visible in your report; right-click on the column
and select Hide.
7.
In Report Manager, click Save Excel Template to save the report with it's new column.
Use the total column, column J in this example as your Column to Check setting in the ZeroingII
function parameters window explained below.
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Configuring the ZeroingII Add-In Function

Rows are discarded or hidden based on a specified columns value.
1.
Open the Report Manager.
2.
Select the report that you want to use the ZeroingII add-in on.
3.
Enable the Show Advanced properties of the report at the bottom of the properties window.
4.
Select the Run Add-Ins ellipses button.
5.
If prompted select Specify a new Add-Inn Function and click OK
6.
Select the Add-In Library : Alchemex Add-In 1.
7.
Select the Add-In Library Module : General Excel extensions Module.
8.
Select the Add-In Function : ZeroingII.
9.
Click OK. The Specify Function Parameters window will appear.
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Example :
Income Statement
Parameter
Description
Sheet to Zero cut Rows on
Type the Excel worksheet name to check for Income Statement

values in
Column to Check
Type in the Excel column to check for values J
Value to Check for
This is usually 0 as we are wanting to

remove all rows which have a zero value
Is an Exact match required Specify Yes to only apply if an exact match

is found
Remove the rows
Yes
Specify Yes to permanently remove the rows No

or No to hide the rows
10. When you have entered your details, select OK. You will notice that a string has been added into
the Run Add-Ins box in the properties window of your report.
11. You can now run your report and verify that it has hidden the correct rows.
The add-in will now automatically run each time the report is run.
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Lesson 5: Copying an Excel Formula to New Rows
what the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows add-In function is
how to configure the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows add-in function
Sage Intelligence Reporting supplies add-ins' that further enhance Excels reporting capabilities. These
Add-Ins' are designed to solve common issues that come up during reporting.
What is the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows Function?

ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows is an add-in that you configure in the Report Manager that will allow you to
automatically extend formulas to any new rows of data each time your report runs.
Why use the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows Function?

When you run a report and want to customize it within Excel, you may want to add a column with a
formula to perform a calculation on the rows of data. If you later run the report and there are additional
rows, the formula doesnt copy down to the new rows.
Configuring the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows Add-In Function

1.
Open the Report Manager.
2.
Select the report that you want to use the ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows add-in on.
3.
Enable the Show Advanced properties of the report at the bottom of the properties window.
4.
Select the Run Add-Ins ellipses button.
5.
If prompted select Specify a new Add-Inn Function and click OK.
6.
Select the Add-In Library: Alchemex Add-In 1.
7.
Select the Add-In Library Module: General Excel extensions Module.
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8.
Select the Add-In Function : ExtendFormulaetoUsedRows.
9.
Click OK. The Specify Function Parameters window will appear.
Parameter
Description
Destination Sheet
Type the Excel worksheet name where the data is

located.
The Column to begin at
Type in the Excel column number, for example Z

will be 26.
The first row to begin copying to This is the first row to begin copying the formula to
The Excel Range to Copy
This is the cell range that youd like to copy to the

additional rows
The Column used to define the

used row range
This is an Excel column that can be used to

determine if the row has data.
Example
Sheet1
26
3
Z2
10. When you have entered your details, select OK. You will notice that a string has been added into
the Run Add-Ins box in the properties window of your report.
The add-in will now automatically run each time the report is run.
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Lesson 6: Scheduling a Report to Run
the process to schedule a report to run
specifying the output location of the report
generating the scheduler command
setting up the windows scheduled task
Report Scheduling saves time when reports need to be available at regular times.
This process is made up of three parts:
NOTE: The workstation where the scheduled task has been created must be turned on at the
scheduled time.
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Specifying the Output Location of the Report

1.
In the Report Manager window, highlight the desired report.
2.
On the properties window, select Show Advanced.
3.
In the Generate Output File field, use the ellipses button () to browse to the desired location.
4.
Either specify a new file name to be used, or select an existing file that will be overwritten when the
scheduled report run takes place.
NOTE: If an existing file from a previous scheduled run exists in the specified scheduled location its
automatically overwritten without any warning. In the Generate Output File property specify a file
name such as C:\MyReports\Sales_@DATE@.xls
Whenever the report is then run a copy will be saved with the name Sales_ current date.
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Generating the Scheduler Command

1.
With the report selected, on the Tools tab, select Scheduler Command.
2.
If the report expects parameters then a prompt will appear to first be completed.
A message box is displayed that shows the syntax for running the report, and is simultaneously
placed on the windows clipboard in order for it to be pasted into the scheduled task command field.
Click OK to exit.
Setting up the Windows Scheduled Task

Windows 7 or 8
1.
Open the Windows Control panel, System and Security, and then open the Administrative Tools,
Task Scheduler item.
2.
From the menu select Action, Create Task. The Create Task window appears.
3.
Give the task a meaningful name.
4.
Click on the Actions tab.
5.
Click New.
6.
Under Program/script, right-click and paste the command from the clipboard.
7.
Click OK.
8.
Confirm the arguments specified by clicking Yes.
9.
Click on the General tab.
10. In the When running the task, use the following user account box, type the user name that
should be used to run the report (for domain user accounts use the format
domain_name\user_name). The user name must be a valid account on the domain or local
machine with sufficient privileges to run Sage Intelligence Reporting reports and must have sufficient
permissions to access all the necessary resources (as per relevant Add-Ins) to run the report.
11. To set the schedule for the task, click on the Triggers tab.
12. Click the New button.
13. Set the schedule options as required and click OK.
14. Click OK to exit.
Once the report has run, you can find it in the directory you specified.
Page 32 of 64
Lesson 7: Copying Report Templates to/from other Sage

Intelligence Users
exporting a report
importing a report
Reports can be exported from one Sage Intelligence Reporting system and imported into other Sage
Intelligence Reporting systems. The export function creates a compressed file with a .al_ extension
which can be imported into other systems.
NOTE:
Though reports are exported only from the Report Manager, they can be imported using either the
Report Manager or the Connector module.
Importing a report that already exists in your system doesnt affect the existing report. An imported
report that contains a template file with the same name as an existing template file must be renamed
to avoid template conflicts. You will be prompted to provide a new name for the template.
When you export a report, everything required to make the report functional is included in the export,
including the container, template, reporting trees, union reports etc.
Exporting a Report from the Report Manager

1.
Select a report you wish to Export
2.
On the Tools tab, click Export Report.
3.
Select the required options:
Page 33 of 64
4.
Click OK (The Save As dialog window appears).
5.
Select the directory where the exported file must be saved to.
6.
You can use the Save as type dropdown list to change the default compressed export file (.al_) to
export file (.alx) if you wish.
7.
Click Save.
8.
A confirmation that your export succeeded will appear.
9.
Click OK.
Importing a Report Using the Report Manager

1.
On the destination workstation, open the Report Manager.
2.
From the Object window, right-click on Home or the folder in which you want to import the report.
3.
Select Import Report.
4.
Select the report to import (an exported report file with the ._al extension or you can use the drop
down list to change the extension to .alx)
5.
Click Open.
6.
The Import Report dialog box will appear.
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7.
Select the Target Connection (for example, RKL Trading Demo).
8.
Select the report destination, which is the Report Manager folder where you want to save the report.
9.
You can change the Report Name field if you want your imported report to have a different name.
10. Click Import.

11. Click OK.
12. You may get a message highlighting that the container may already exist. While a container with
the same name may exist, the container the report is importing may not necessary be the same
container and could have a number of differences to the container. Click Yes to use this container
or No to create a new container.
13. A message may appear indicating that a template already exists click Yes to specify a new name
or No to overwrite the existing template file.
14. A confirmation that your import succeeded will appear.

15. Click OK.
16. On the Home tab in the group Actions select Refresh, to update the view and display your new
report.
Page 35 of 64
Lesson 8: Allowing Report Templates to be accessed by

Multiple Users
what the metadata repository is
where the metadata repository is
how to share the metadata repository for multiple users
The MetaData Repository stores all of your important information including connection, container, report
information and reporting trees in one folder.
The Benefits of the MetaData Repository
Sharing the MetaData Repository folder allows report templates to be accessed by multiple users.
By storing all of your important information in one folder, backing up this folder will ensure that all of
your connection, container, reporting trees and report templates can be easily restored in the event
of data loss.
TIP: Add this folder to your daily backups to ensure that all of your connection, container, reporting
trees and report templates can be easily restored in the event of data loss.
Lets go through the process to share the metadata.

1.
The location of the MetaData Repository can be found by opening the Report Manager or
Connector. In the window that opens with Home selected on the Properties tab, the MetaData
Repository location will be displayed.
On the server or workstation which contains the metadata repository that youd like to share, use
windows explorer to share the folder that the metadata repository is located in.
2.
When opening Sage Intelligence Reporting for the first time on another workstation, you will be
prompted for the location of the metadata repository. Browse to the shared folder on the network.
OR
If you have already installed Sage Intelligence Reporting, open the Report Manager and on the File
menu, select Metadata Options, Change.
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3.
Type the path or browse to the shared folder on the network.
Page 37 of 64
Lesson 9: Sending Reports to Others
what report distribution is
the process to configure and use distribution
how to configure email, ftp and file publish instructions
how to link distribution instructions to reports
What is Report Distribution?

Report distribution is a powerful feature which saves time and effort by allowing you to send reports to a
file, ftp site or email in a number of standard formats. Improve workflow and speed up business
processes by automating report delivery and distribution.
Set up which reports youd like to distribute, whether youd like them in Excel, HMTL or PDF and who it
should be sent to. You can even create custom criteria for sending out reports.
Features include the ability to customize each email format, use your existing outlook profile and address
book, or specify a SMTP or Exchange server. The same report can be set up to be distributed to
different destinations.
Distribution is ideal for sending reports out to line managers or providing corporate management with
tailored reports.
The process to use distribution is as follows:
Page 38 of 64
Distribution Settings: Allowing Sage Intelligence Reporting to Email Reports

Email is the most popular distribution method. By default, your Microsoft Outlook profile settings will be
used by Sage Intelligence Reporting to send emailed reports automatically, however, if this is not
preferable or you dont have Microsoft Outlook installed, an Exchange or SMTP Server may be specified.
These details will have to be obtained by your network administrator.
The SMTP / Exchange Server option is recommended for an unattended distribution as the Use My
Outlook Profile option requires Outlook to be open at the time of distribution.
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Manage Distribution Instructions

Distribution Instructions save time by sending reports, along with pertinent information, automatically to
the right person/people using the chosen electronic method. Use the Manage Distribution
Instructions to set up different instructions for each report that requires a unique distribution method,
i.e. distributed to different people or via different methods. For example, Email, FTP or saved to a file.
To access distribution instructions, do the following:
1.
Run a report from the Sage Intelligence Reporting Report Manager to Excel.
2.
Select the BI Tools Tab.
3.
Select Manage Instructions.
4.
From the Manage Distribution Instructions window, you can now Add, Edit, Delete or Rename
your Instructions.
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Adding Distribution Instructions

1.
From the Manage Distribution Instructions window, select Add.
2.
Enter a Distribution Instruction Name. For example, Head Office Financial Manager.
3.
You will be presented with a window which has three distribution methods, namely Email, File
Publish and FTP.
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4.
By default the methods are disabled. You may enable one or multiple options by selecting the
Enable box/es.
Sending a Report using Email

When the Enable Email box is selected, you will be able to fill in the email details.
1.
Enter the recipients' e-mail addresses or names in the To, Cc, or Bcc box. Always separate
multiple recipients with a semicolon. To select from your outlook address book, select the To, Cc or
Bcc buttons and select the name/names. If you dont have Microsoft Outlook installed, you will
need to enter the recipients full email address.
To... A message is sent to the recipients in the To box.
Cc... A copy of the message is also sent to recipients in the Cc box.
Bcc.. A copy of the message is also sent to recipients in the Bcc box; however its a blind
carbon copy so the names of the recipients in the Bcc box aren't visible to other recipients.
2.
In the Subject box, type the subject of the message.
3.
In the message body you can type in the required text to accompany your report. You may also use
Cell References to reference any data in your report. All of the standard formatting commands are
also available from the menu bar.
4.
You will need to specify a file name for your report in the File Name box.
5.
In the format box, select the format youd like the report to be emailed in.
6.
You also have the option to distribute each worksheet as separate documents or leave this option
disabled to send worksheets in one workbook.
7.
Select OK.
Page 42 of 64
Adding Cell References to the Body of an Email Message

A cell reference refers to a particular cell or range of cells in your worksheet. Cell references are used to
identify data for use in formulas to calculate results based on your data. From your Email Distribution
form, you can add cell references to the body or headers of your email message. For example, you
could reference the gross profit for the month.
To Add Cell References to the Body of an Email Message, do the following:
1.
Whilst in the Email Distribution Instruction, at the point where youd like to reference the Excel cell
reference, click on the fx button.
2.
The Select a Cell window will appear in Excel.
3.
Enter the cell reference/s, or click on the cell/s youd like to add and you will notice that its reference
is automatically inserted into the window.
4.
Click on the Expand Dialog box.
5.
You will be returned to your email distribution instruction and you will notice that the cell reference
has been added to your message text.
Page 43 of 64
6.
If you click on the Preview Cell References box, you will be able to see the text that would be
inserted for the report which is currently open in Excel from cell F45 for this example.
NOTE: You cant edit the window whilst in Preview Cell References mode. To exit, select the
Preview Cell References box again.
Adding Cell References to Email Headers

Cell References can also be added to the headers of your email message. For example, you could
email a particular person if a condition was true. For example, in Excel you could specify that if the
Sales Revenue was above a certain amount, then the sales manager would receive a congratulatory
email with the financial report.
Page 44 of 64
To add Cell References to Email Headers, do the following:

1.
In your Excel Report, add an IF formula in a blank cell, for this example we will add it into cell N2,
=IF(B12>1000000,"jones@worldwide.xyz", ";")
where Cell B12 represents your Sales Revenue and jones@worldwide.xyz represents the email
address of the sales manager.
2.
In the Manage Instructions, email message header, right-click in the To... box, select Insert, Cell
Reference.
3.
In Excel, select cell N2.
4.
Select the Expand Dialog box.
5.
In your Distribution Instruction, you will notice the cell reference has been inserted into the To...
box.
Page 45 of 64
6.
If you now select the Preview Cell References box, you will be able to see the value that will be
inserted if your Sales Revenue exceeds $1,000,000
7.
If your sales revenue doesnt exceed $1,000,000 the email will not be sent to the sales manager as
your Preview Cell References To... Box will show you that the sales manager's email will not be
inserted.
Page 46 of 64
Sending a Report to a File

In order to save a report to a specified location, the file publish option can be enabled. You can save
your report to an Excel or a PDF file format.
To add a File Publish Instruction, do the following:
1.
Select the File Publish tab.
2.
Select the Enable File Publish box.
3.
Select the Browse button to locate the folder where youd like the Reports saved to and select the
OK button.
4.
Type in the file name youd like to save your report to and select the format youd like the report to
be in.
5.
For the Excel and HTML format, you will have the option to save each worksheet as separate
documents. Select the box to apply the option.
6.
Select OK.
Page 47 of 64
Sending a Report Using FTP

In order to FTP a report to a specified location, the FTP option can be enabled.
To add an FTP Instruction, do the following:
1.
Select the FTP tab
2.
Select the Enable FTP box.
3.
The server information can be obtained from your IT administrator as well as the logon information.
4.
Specify a file name youd like the report to be saved to.
5.
Specify the format youd like the report to be saved in.
6.
For the Excel and MHMTL format, you will have the option to save each worksheet as separate
documents. Select the box to apply the option.
7.
Select OK.
Page 48 of 64
Editing Distribution Instructions

1.
To edit existing distribution instructions, select the BI Tools Tab.
2.
Select Manage Instructions
3.
Select the Distribution Instruction youd like to edit.
4.
Select Edit
5.
Make the necessary changes and select OK.
Page 49 of 64
Select Instructions: Linking the Distribution Instructions to a Report

Once the distribution instructions have been set up, the instructions need to be linked to the report, and
the worksheets which the instructions must apply to, need to be selected.
To Link the Distribution Instructions to a Report, do the following:
1.
Run the relevant report from Sage Intelligence Reporting Report Manager.
2.
In Excel, select the BI Tools Tab.
3.
Click Select Instructions.
4.
On the left you will see all the instructions you have previously set up. On the right is all the
worksheets available in the current excel report you have run out from the Sage Intelligence
Reporting Report Manager.
Page 50 of 64
5.
Select the Instruction from the left that youd like to apply, and select the right arrow button.
6.
Select the boxes next to the worksheets youd like to include in your distribution instruction.
7.
If youd like to include an additional instruction, repeat from step 4.
8.
If youd like any selected distribution instruction(s) to be executed when a report is automatically
scheduled via a scheduler command select the option.
9.
Select OK.
NOTE: If youd like the distribution instruction to be permanently saved to the report, you will need to
return to the Report Manager and save the Excel template.
Page 51 of 64
Automating Distribution
In order to use automated email distribution its recommended that you use the SMTP / Exchange
Server option in your Distribution Settings as the Use My Outlook Profile option requires Outlook to be
open at the time of distribution.
1.
From your Select Distribution Instruction window, If youd like the distribution instruction to be
executed when scheduling the report, select the check box :
2.
You will then need the distribution instruction to be permanently saved to the report, so you will need
to return to the Report Manager and save the Excel template.
3.
You can then schedule the report as per the normal procedure.
Running the Distribution Instruction

Once the distribution instructions have been selected for a report, you can execute the instructions by
selecting the Send Now button.
To locate the Send Now button, do the following:
1.
Select the BI Tools tab.
2.
Select Send Now.
3.
The distribution instructions will then be validated. If there are any errors, these will be displayed;
thereafter the distribution instructions will be executed.
Page 52 of 64
Preserving Formulas when Distributing Reports

If you want to preserve formulas when distributing reports, the worksheet must be protected in Excel.
You can also use worksheet protection to prevent changes to the worksheet.
By default, when you protect a worksheet, all the cells on the worksheet are locked and users cant make
any changes to a locked cell. However, you can unlock specific cells for all users or specific users.
Unlocking cells or ranges
To unlock any cells or ranges that you want other users to be able to change, do the following:
1.
Select each cell or range that you want to unlock.
2.
On the Home tab, in the Cells group, click Format, and then click Format Cells.
3.
On the Protection tab, uncheck the Locked box.
4.
Click OK.
Hiding formulas
To hide any formulas that you dont want to be visible, do the following:
1.
In the worksheet, select the cells that contain the formulas that you want to hide.
2.
On the Home tab, in the Cells group, click Format, and then click Format Cells.
3.
On the Protection tab, check the Hidden box.
4.
Click OK.
Page 53 of 64
Password protecting the worksheet

1.
On the Review tab, in the Changes group, click Protect Sheet.
2.
In the Allow all users of this worksheet to list, select the elements you want users to be able to
change.
Uncheck This
To prevent users from:
Select locked
cells
Moving the pointer to cells for which the Locked box is checked on the
Protection tab of the Format Cells dialog box. By default, users are allowed
to select locked cells.
Moving the pointer to cells for which the Locked box is unchecked on the
Select unlocked Protection tab of the Format Cells dialog box. By default, users can select
unlocked cells, and they can press the TAB key to move between the
cells
unlocked cells on a protected worksheet.
Format cells
Changing any of the options in the Format Cells or Conditional Formatting

dialog boxes. If you applied conditional formats before you protected the
worksheet, the formatting continues to change when a user enters a value
that satisfies a different condition.
Format columns
Using any of the column formatting commands, including changing column

width or hiding columns (Home tab, in the Cells group, Format button).
Format rows
Using any of the row formatting commands, including changing row height or
hiding rows (Home tab, Cells group, Format button).
Insert columns
Inserting columns.
Insert rows
Inserting rows.
Insert hyperlinks Inserting new hyperlinks, even in unlocked cells.

Deleting columns.
Delete columns
Note: If Delete columns is protected and Insert columns is not also protected,
a user can insert columns that he or she cant delete.
Deleting rows.
Delete rows
Note: If Delete rows is protected and Insert rows is not also protected, a
user can insert rows that he or she cant delete.
Using any commands to sort data (Data tab, Sort & Filter group).
Sort
Note: Users can't sort ranges that contain locked cells on a protected
worksheet, regardless of this setting.
Page 54 of 64
Uncheck This
Use AutoFilter
Use PivotTable
reports
To prevent users from:

Using the drop-down arrows to change the filter on ranges when AutoFilters
are applied.
Note: Users cant apply or remove AutoFilters on a protected worksheet,
regardless of this setting.
Formatting, changing the layout, refreshing, or otherwise modifying
PivotTable reports, or creating new reports.
Doing any of the following:
Making changes to graphic objects including maps, embedded charts,

shapes, text boxes, and controls that you did not unlock before you
protected the worksheet. For example, if a worksheet has a button that
runs a macro, you can click the button to run the macro, but you cant
delete the button.
Making any changes, such as formatting, to an embedded chart. The

chart continues to be updated when you change its source data.
Adding or editing comments.
Edit objects
Edit scenarios
Viewing scenarios that you have hidden, making changes to scenarios that
you have prevented changes to, and deleting these scenarios. Users can
change the values in the changing cells, if the cells are not protected, and
add new scenarios.
2.
In the Password to unprotect sheet box, type a password for the sheet.
3.
Click OK, and then retype the password to confirm it.
WARNING: Its critical that you remember your password. If you forget your password, it cant be
retrieved.
TIP: For an additional layer of security, you can protect your whole workbook file by using a
password. This allows only users who have the password the ability to view or modify data in the
workbook.
Removing protection from a worksheet

4.
On the Review tab, in the Changes group, click Unprotect Sheet.
NOTE: The Protect Sheet option changes to Unprotect Sheet when a worksheet is protected.
5.
If prompted, type the password to unprotect the worksheet.
Page 55 of 64
Lesson 10: Best Practice
The following are tips which when followed, will result in the most flexible and efficient reports.
Parameters
Rename parameter fields on the parameters properties screen where necessary to provide more
meaningful options to the user at runtime.
In the properties window, select the Parameters on Second Sheet field. Having the parameter
values within the workbook can be extremely useful in report headings.
Where possible, insert system variables in the report parameter defaults, for example,
@MONTHEND@ to eliminate possible errors at run time.
Set each parameter fields Mandatory box on.
Page 56 of 64
Union Reports
Union Sub reports run in Reverse Order (LIFO) within a union report, i.e. the report listed at the bottom
is run first, and then the next one up.
Place all parameters on the first union sub report which runs. Should filtering be required on
subsequent sub reports, Pass Through Variables can be used to pass these values to filters in the
sub reports. This will eliminate parameter pop ups later in the run process.
When adding a sub report to a union report, the reports are all set to run out on the first worksheet of
the workbook. The sub report run order can be amended by changing the Output Sheet Number
on each union sub report.
WARNING: If the Parameters on Second Sheet have been selected, no sub reports should be
assigned to the second worksheet of the workbook.
Using the example below, when running out the report, the Dashboard Sales Sub report will be on
Sheet 1, the parameters on Sheet 2, the Dashboard Financials Grp Sub report on Sheet 3, the
Dashboard Financials Acc Sub report on Sheet 4 and the Acc Group Code report on Sheet 5.
Page 57 of 64
Union Sub Reports
Set Report Hidden on for all Sub reports, to eliminate confusion between the report and the sub
reports making up that report. By doing this, the Sub report will not appear on the menu, but will still
be accessible via the Tools menu.
Sub Report properties have an option to Abort Union Report if No Data. This option should be
checked on for any sub reports that must return data for a report output to make sense. Standard
reports by default give a No data message when there is no data but since a union report pulls data
from more than one report (e.g. a dashboard) you may still want to see the report even though
some data is not there. There is however union reports that youd not want to run out if one or more
of the Sub Reports dont return data. An example would be a financial report that is a Union report.
In these scenarios you should check this option for the Sub Reports. If there is no data for the sub
report(s) then the report aborts.
Un-select the option Allow Report Viewer and External Access on the relevant reports. This
option must not be selected for drill-down and sub reports. This will ensure that the report is not
available for use in application menus.
All Sub Reports should have the word Sub at the end of the report name to differentiate them from
standalone reports that are intended to run individually. Sub reports are not intended to be run as
standalone reports.
Page 58 of 64
Excel Template
Excel Formatting
The benefits of applying a best practice standard are:
Consistency - spreadsheets have a consistent structure and look, making sharing easier.
Clarity - spreadsheets are clear and structured, reading like a book, navigating like a website. This
makes them easier to share and audit.
Efficiency - spreadsheets use efficient formula structures. They will be easier to use and share,
saving time at key points in critical processes.
Flexibility - models are easily changed and extended without the need for a complete re-work
We recommend that you:
Use cell references to enter data into formulas. Using cell references in formulas allows the formula
to update when the data is changed at a later date, without having to manually edit each formula.
This method makes modifying and maintaining your worksheet easier.
Use Conditional formatting - with proper visual design, analyzers will be able to discern 'good' or
'bad' values in seconds.
Avoid the extraneous - remove any 'noise'. If it doesnt serve a purpose in the spreadsheet, take it
out. That includes prior old data, prior layout attempts etc.
Use a consistent naming strategy, versioning and save often. If youre working on updating the 4th
version of your income statement spreadsheet, name and save the workbook as Income Statement
5.0 before your begin your modification. Then if something goes terribly wrong, you can always
revert to the old version.
Set Freeze Panes in Excel to enable easy scrolling around the worksheet without losing view of
report headings etc.
Page 59 of 64
Set report headings at the top of each worksheet that is used as a final end result. Include
parameter values within the report headings where necessary.
Use the ZeroingII function to hide the display of zero values on the worksheets.
Hide the display of gridlines on the worksheets.
Adjust the zoom display if necessary but to a minimum of 75%.
Ensure the correct worksheets in the workbook have been hidden.
Save the template on the correct worksheet with the cursor position in the first blank cell.
When developing a template, its recommended to do so using the earliest version of Excel that the
people reading the report are using, and to link the template back as an .xlt for Excel 2003 or .xltx for
Excel 2007 file.
PivotTable
When using a PivotTable in the template file, take the
following into account:
PivotTable Limitations ensure that you dont display

too many row fields that could cause the PivotTable
limitation to be reached. Use report filter/page fields
where necessary to further summarize data.
When pivoting data from a source data sheet where

the data was rendered by Sage Intelligence
Reporting, always use the named range
Sheetname!RawData. This will ensure that the full
range of data extracted is always available for use
within the PivotTable. When adding new columns to
a report, these new columns of data will then
automatically be included in the PivotTable range.
Turn off the feature Save data with table layout.

This is a PivotTable option which affects the file size
when enabled, resulting in unnecessarily large
template files.
Use the feature Clean Template Pivot Fields in the

Report Manager to clear out PivotTable items before
exporting the report for delivery. This will ensure that
the user of the report doesnt view items within the
PivotTable that were used in the development of the
report.
Page 60 of 64
Suggested PivotTable settings:
Set the following footers on each page:
At the bottom left, set the date and time
At the bottom right, set page numbering
Set print titles to have row headings repeated at the top of each page.
Set print titles to have columns repeated at the left of each page where necessary.
Preview the report and adjust the scaling where necessary, but to a minimum of 75%.
Reset margins where necessary.
Formatting should be uniform on all reports to ensure the end product has a consistent feel.
When formatting a pivot, the use of bright colors should be avoided. It should also be taken into
account that color schemes may vary on different systems.
Its recommended that the Quick Pivot and Format Pivot tool be used to format all PivotTables.
This can be found under the Add-Ins tab in Excel.
Page 61 of 64
Pivot Charts
We recommend that when creating pivot charts, formatting be set to automatic. This will ensure that a
pivot chart automatically reformats when used in different Excel versions.
Using Slicers and Sparklines in Excel Templates

In order to use slicers and Sparklines the Excel template file must be saved in a 2007 (.xltx) format. To
do this, do the following:
1.
Run out the standard report into Excel from the Report Manager.
2.
Go back to your Report Manager and click on the report you have run.
3.
Right-click and select Un-link Template.
4.
The Excel Template is no longer linked to the report. Right-click on the report again and select
Save Excel Template.
5.
The Select Workbook to Convert to Template window will appear. Select the workbook from the
list.
6.
Click OK.
7.
Select Yes, to place Parameters on the Second Sheet.
8.
Select the Template File Format to use. Select Excel 2007 (.xltx). This will ensure the template is
compatible with Excel 2007 and Excel 2010 allowing you now to use Slicers and Sparklines in your
reports.
9.
Specify the Template name. You will notice its now a (.xltx) file.
10. The Excel Template will be linked to the report as an Excel 2007 Template (*.xltx) and you will
receive a confirmation message.
Page 62 of 64
How Can I Get Assistance Whilst Working?

The Sage Intelligence Reporting Help File has more information on all of the features covered in the
courses. Be sure to explore the help file whenever you have a question or want to know about other
Sage Intelligence Reporting features.
1.
The help files can be accessed by pressing the F1 button in your Sage Intelligence Reporting
software or clicking on the Help tab and selecting View Help.
The help file will then open.
Page 63 of 64
Is There Another Way to Create Customized Financial Reports?
The other option to design your financial report layouts is the Report Designer. The Report Designer
makes reporting simple, flexible and fast by giving you the ability to customize your financial report
layouts instantly. Its recommended for finance professionals and executives who need to create
financial reports on a regular basis.
In the Report Designer, the layout generator gives you the power to transform Excel data in a raw
spreadsheet format into a meaningful layout by using an intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
For those professionals who want to have complete control of their report layout and who are familiar
with Excel, the task pane allows a completely customized layout to be designed using Excels' powerful
functionality.
The Report Designer is discussed in detail in the Sage Intelligence course for your ERP.
Page 64 of 64

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2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

Creating a New Total Column in Excel ................................................................................................ 25

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Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

LESSON 10: BEST PRACTICE .............................................................................................................. 56

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

How to Use the Curriculum

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

Lesson 1: Understanding The Excel

This lesson introduces the structure of a standard and union

Lesson 2: Creating a Single Page View

This lesson demonstrates how to create a dashboard.

Lesson 3: Protecting The Excel Report

This lesson demonstrates how to protect the Excel report

Lesson 4: Hiding or Discarding

This lesson demonstrates how to hide or discard insignificant

Lesson 5: Copying an Excel Formula to

This lesson demonstrates how to use the

Lesson 6: Scheduling a Report to Run

This lesson demonstrates how to schedule a report to run at

Lesson 7: Copying Report Templates

This lesson introduces the export and import function.

Lesson 8: Allowing Report Templates to

This lesson introduces the metadata and how to share it to

Lesson 9: Sending Reports To Others

This lesson demonstrates the distribution options to send

Lesson 10: Best Practice

This lesson introduces all of the recommended methods to

Sample Company Information

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

Lesson 1: Understanding the Excel Workbook Created When

the structure of a standard report workbook

the structure of a union report workbook

The Structure of a Standard Report Workbook

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

Sheet3 and Beyond

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

The Structure of a Union Report Workbook

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

Sheet3 and Beyond

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual

Lesson 2: Creating a Single Page View of the Most Important

the benefits of a Dashboard

how to create PivotTables

how to create Pivot Charts

how to create Slicers

how to create a Dashboard

A real-time overview of the overall health of your business at a glance.

Makes critical information readily available, improving collaboration and productivity.

2014 Sage Intelligence Reporting

Sage Intelligence 7.3 Reporting Intermediate Manual