How can you create custom reports and dashboards using operating budget software?

1 Choose your data sources

The first step to create custom reports and dashboards is to choose the data sources that you want to use for your analysis. Depending on the operating budget software you are using, you may be able to import data from different sources, such as spreadsheets, databases, accounting systems, or other applications. You can also enter data manually or use formulas to calculate values. You should make sure that your data sources are accurate, consistent, and up-to-date, and that they align with your budgeting and reporting objectives.

2 Select your report and dashboard templates

The next step is to select the report and dashboard templates that you want to use for your presentation. Most operating budget software offer a variety of templates that you can customize and modify according to your needs. For example, you can choose templates for income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, variance analysis, key performance indicators, or charts and graphs. You can also create your own templates from scratch or by copying and editing existing ones.

3 Adjust your report and dashboard settings

The third step is to adjust the settings of your report and dashboard templates to fit your data and preferences. You can change the layout, format, style, color, font, and other aspects of your report and dashboard design. You can also add, remove, or rearrange the elements of your report and dashboard, such as columns, rows, fields, filters, groups, headers, footers, or titles. You can also define the parameters and criteria for your report and dashboard, such as the time period, the scenario, the currency, the unit, or the level of detail.

4 Generate and view your report and dashboard

The fourth step is to generate and view your report and dashboard using the data sources and the templates that you have chosen and adjusted. You can either run your report and dashboard manually or schedule them to run automatically at a certain frequency or time. You can also refresh your report and dashboard to update them with the latest data. You can view your report and dashboard on your screen, print them, export them to different formats, or share them with others.

5 Analyze and interpret your report and dashboard

The fifth step is to analyze and interpret your report and dashboard to gain insights and make decisions. You can use your report and dashboard to compare your actual results with your budgeted or projected results, identify trends and patterns, evaluate your performance and progress, highlight issues and opportunities, or communicate your findings and recommendations. You can also use interactive features of your report and dashboard, such as drill-down, slice-and-dice, zoom-in, or filter, to explore your data in more depth and detail.

6 Modify and improve your report and dashboard

The final step is to modify and improve your report and dashboard based on your feedback and experience. You can review your report and dashboard regularly and check if they are still relevant, accurate, and useful for your purposes. You can also solicit feedback from your stakeholders, such as your managers, colleagues, clients, or auditors, and incorporate their suggestions and comments. You can also experiment with different data sources, templates, settings, or features to enhance your report and dashboard and make them more effective and efficient.

7 Here’s what else to consider

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