Your Guide to Reporting Automation: Boost Efficiency & Accuracy

Ted Jackson

Co-Founder & Alabama Native

Ted is a Founder and Managing Partner of ClearPoint Strategy and leads the sales and marketing teams.

Ted Jackson is the co-founder of ClearPoint Strategy, a B2B SaaS platform that empowers organizations to execute strategic plans with precision. A Duke and Harvard Business School alumnus, he brings over 30 years’ experience in strategy execution—including 15 years with Kaplan and Norton on the Balanced Scorecard. Ted works closely with customers to ensure the software meets unique challenges, continually refining the platform with his global expertise.

Streamline your workflow with reporting automation. Learn how to enhance efficiency and accuracy, freeing up time for strategic tasks and better decision-making.

Table of Contents

Drowning in spreadsheets? Spending countless hours compiling data and creating reports? You're not alone. Many organizations grapple with the tedious and time-consuming process of manual reporting. But what if you could reclaim those lost hours and empower your team to focus on strategic work? Reporting automation offers a lifeline, transforming how businesses gather, analyze, and utilize data. Think of it as a tireless assistant that handles the heavy lifting of reporting, freeing you to focus on what truly matters: making informed decisions and driving strategic success. In this guide, we'll explore the power of reporting automation, breaking down its benefits, implementation strategies, and the future of this game-changing technology. At ClearPoint Strategy, we've witnessed firsthand how reporting automation can revolutionize organizations, and we're here to share our insights with you.

Key Takeaways

  • Invest time upfront to automate, and reap rewards later: Automating reports is like building a well-oiled machine. It requires initial effort, but the payoff in saved time, improved accuracy, and better decision-making is substantial. Free your team from tedious manual tasks and empower them to focus on strategic work.
  • Look for reporting tools that offer flexibility and customization: Your reporting needs are unique. Choose tools that allow you to tailor reports, integrate with existing systems, and visualize data in a way that tells your strategic story clearly and effectively.
  • Data quality and user adoption are key to success: Accurate reports depend on reliable data. Establish clear data governance policies and invest in training to ensure your team embraces the new tools and processes. A data-driven culture, supported by the right technology, is essential for long-term success.

What is Reporting Automation?

Reporting automation is like having a tireless assistant who gathers all your essential data, prepares polished reports, and delivers them right on schedule. It replaces manual reporting processes with software that automatically pulls data, creates visualizations, and distributes reports, freeing up your team for more strategic work. Think of it as a well-oiled machine that transforms raw data into actionable insights, without the tedious manual labor. At ClearPoint, this "smart efficiency"—investing time upfront to automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on what truly matters—is a core principle that guides everything we do. Just as we carefully considered the flexibility of our measure series feature, we've designed our reporting automation with the same meticulous attention to detail.

Define Reporting Automation and Its Purpose

Reporting automation uses software to create reports automatically, eliminating manual processes. This speeds up reporting, improves accuracy, and frees up employees for more strategic work. Instead of manually collecting and entering data, the software does it for you, creating reports according to predefined rules and schedules. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency and reduces the risk of human error. The purpose is simple: to provide timely, accurate, and relevant information that empowers better decision-making. Just as a GPS helps you navigate a complex route, ClearPoint's reporting automation features guide you toward strategic success by providing clear, data-driven insights. It's the same philosophy we applied when developing our platform—anticipating the needs of our customers and building solutions that stand the test of time.

Key Components of Automated Reporting

Automated reporting tools gather information from various sources, combine it, and create a report. They can update reports based on specific criteria, such as refreshing data or changing timeframes. These tools act as a central hub, integrating data from various systems, whether it's your CRM, marketing automation platform, or financial software. This eliminates the need to manually pull data from different sources—a process that's both time-consuming and prone to errors. The ability to customize reports based on specific needs and automatically update them ensures that the information is always current and relevant. At ClearPoint, we've designed our platform with this flexibility in mind, allowing you to tailor reports to your specific strategic objectives and access real-time insights that drive informed decisions. It's like having a custom-built dashboard that provides a clear view of your progress at any given moment, much like the interactive dashboards our clients use to tell their strategic stories.

Benefits of Automating Your Reports

Reporting automation isn’t just a tech trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how organizations manage and leverage data. Think of it as upgrading from a horse-drawn carriage to a high-speed train—you reach your destination faster and with far less effort. But the benefits extend beyond just speed. Let's explore how automating your reports can revolutionize your workflows and empower better decision-making.

Save Time and Boost Efficiency

Manual reporting is like running a marathon with weights strapped to your ankles. It's slow, tedious, and drains valuable time and energy. Automated reporting, on the other hand, cuts through the noise, generating reports significantly faster than manual processes. This eliminates countless hours spent on data entry and number crunching, freeing up your team to focus on what truly matters: analyzing insights and driving strategic action. As Alteryx points out in their guide to automated reporting, automation empowers your team to focus on understanding the information, not just collecting it. At ClearPoint, we've seen firsthand how this shift can transform teams, allowing them to dedicate more time to strategic thinking and less to tedious administrative tasks. It's about working smarter, not harder. Just as a well-oiled machine operates smoothly and efficiently, so too does an organization with automated reporting processes.

Improve Accuracy and Data Integrity

Humans are fallible. We make mistakes, especially when dealing with large datasets and repetitive tasks. Manual reporting is a breeding ground for errors, potentially leading to flawed insights and misguided decisions. Automated reporting minimizes this risk by removing the human element from the equation. The result? More reliable results and a consistent format that simplifies comparisons and trend analysis. This increased accuracy builds trust in the data, ensuring that your decisions are based on solid ground. At ClearPoint, we've built our platform with this principle in mind, providing our clients with the confidence that their data is accurate and their insights are sound. Think of it as building a house on a solid foundation—accuracy and data integrity are the bedrock of sound decision-making.

Enhance Decision-Making

In today's rapidly changing business environment, timely insights are crucial. Automated reporting systems can detect trends and issues in real-time, providing you with the agility to respond quickly and make informed decisions. No more waiting days or weeks for reports to be compiled—you have the information you need at your fingertips. This real-time visibility empowers you to seize opportunities, mitigate risks, and stay ahead of the curve. At ClearPoint, we've seen how this real-time intelligence can be a game-changer for our clients, enabling them to make data-driven decisions with confidence and speed. It's like having a GPS for your strategy, guiding you toward your goals with precision and accuracy. ClearPoint Strategy helps you visualize your progress, identify roadblocks, and adjust your course as needed.

Scale and Maintain Consistency

As your organization grows, so too will your reporting needs. Manual reporting processes simply can't keep pace with this growth, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies. Automated reporting, however, scales effortlessly, adapting to your evolving needs and ensuring consistent reporting across departments and teams. This scalability is essential for long-term success, allowing you to maintain data integrity and reporting consistency as your organization expands. At ClearPoint, we understand the challenges of scaling reporting processes. That's why we've designed our platform to be flexible and adaptable, empowering organizations of all sizes to streamline their reporting and achieve strategic alignment. It's about building a system that grows with you, not against you, much like a tree that adapts to its environment and continues to flourish.

How Reporting Automation Works

At its core, automated reporting replaces manual processes with software-driven ones. Think of it as a well-oiled machine, taking raw data and transforming it into polished reports, ready for decision-making. Let's break down how it works:

Collect and Integrate Data

The first step involves gathering data. Automated reporting tools pull information from various sources—your CRM, marketing automation platform, financial software, and more. Instead of manually compiling spreadsheets from different departments, the software seamlessly integrates this data, creating a unified view. This comprehensive perspective is what ClearPoint Strategy excels at, providing a holistic understanding of your performance. We learned early on that flexibility in data integration was key for our customers, and we designed ClearPoint to handle even the most complex data landscapes. Much like how a GPS navigates using multiple satellite signals, ClearPoint combines data from disparate sources to give you a clear picture of where you are and where you're going.

Generate and Customize Reports

Once the data is collected, the automation magic begins. The software processes the raw data, transforming it into insightful reports based on predefined rules and templates. Need a monthly sales report? A quarterly performance overview? The system generates these automatically, saving you hours of manual work. What's more, you can customize these reports to fit your specific needs. No more generic, one-size-fits-all reports—you have the power to tailor the information presented. At ClearPoint, we believe that customization is key to telling your unique strategic story, and our platform offers a wide range of reporting options to help you do just that. Just as a skilled tailor creates a custom suit, ClearPoint allows you to craft reports that perfectly fit your organization's requirements.

Distribute and Access Reports

Finally, the automated system distributes these reports to the relevant stakeholders. No more emailing spreadsheets or printing bulky reports. The information is readily available online, accessible anytime, anywhere. This streamlined access empowers faster decision-making and fosters better collaboration. This democratization of data is something we're passionate about at ClearPoint Strategy. We believe that everyone in your organization should have access to the information they need to contribute to strategic success. Real-time insights further enhance this process, allowing for agile responses to changing market conditions. Think of it as having your finger on the pulse of your organization, constantly monitoring performance and making adjustments as needed.

Essential Reporting Automation Tool Features

Choosing the right reporting automation tool can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Focus your search by prioritizing these essential features:

Visualize Data Effectively

A good reporting automation tool should transform raw data into insightful visuals. Think interactive dashboards, customizable charts, and graphs that clearly communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) and other important metrics. This allows everyone, from executives to frontline teams, to quickly grasp performance trends and make informed decisions. Features like drill-down capabilities and customizable report templates further enhance data exploration and analysis. Remember, the goal is to move beyond static reports and create a dynamic view of your organization's performance. ClearPoint Strategy, for example, offers a range of visualization options designed to bring your data to life. For more guidance on choosing the right KPIs, explore resources like this article on measuring automation success.

Schedule and Update in Real-Time

Timely reporting is crucial for effective decision-making. Look for tools that allow you to automate report generation and distribution on a set schedule. Real-time data updates are also essential for keeping everyone informed about the latest performance metrics. Instead of manually collecting and entering data, the software automatically pulls information from various sources, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors. This automated approach ensures that your reports are always current and reflect the most up-to-date information. Automated reporting empowers you to move away from tedious manual processes and focus on what matters most: analyzing the data and taking action.

Collaborate and Share

Effective reporting isn't just about generating reports; it's about sharing those insights with the right people. Your reporting automation tool should facilitate seamless collaboration and sharing. Look for features that allow you to easily distribute reports to stakeholders, control access permissions, and encourage discussion around the data. This fosters a data-driven culture where everyone has the information they need to contribute to strategic goals. The ability to easily export reports in various formats and integrate with other communication platforms further enhances collaboration and knowledge sharing. At ClearPoint, we prioritize collaboration features that empower teams to work together effectively. For a deeper dive into the benefits of automated reporting, check out this informative guide.

Ensure Security and Compliance

Data security is paramount, especially when dealing with sensitive information. Your chosen reporting automation tool must prioritize security and compliance. Look for features like robust access controls, data encryption, and compliance certifications (e.g., SOC 2) to protect your organization's data. Protecting sensitive information is not just a best practice; it's a necessity. Ensure your reporting automation tool adheres to industry best practices and regulatory requirements to maintain data integrity and build trust with stakeholders. Thinking about automating your reports? This resource on report automation offers valuable insights into security and other key considerations.

Best Practices for Implementing Reporting Automation

Successfully automating your reporting process involves more than just choosing the right software. It requires a strategic approach that considers your organization's specific needs and goals. Here’s how to get started:

Infographic outlining 5 steps to successfully implement reporting automation.

Define Clear Goals and Objectives

Before diving into automation, take time to define your objectives. What key questions do you want your reports to answer? Who is your audience, and what information do they need? For example, if your sales team needs to understand weekly performance, your reports should automatically track key sales metrics and deliver those insights directly to the team. At ClearPoint, we work with clients to establish these goals upfront, ensuring that the automated reports align with their overall strategic objectives. This clarity is essential for choosing the right metrics and designing reports that deliver actionable insights. Just as a GPS needs a destination to provide directions, your reporting automation needs clear objectives to deliver the right information.

Ensure Data Quality and Governance

The accuracy of your automated reports directly depends on the quality of your data. Think of it like building a house: a solid foundation is crucial for a stable structure. Similarly, clean, reliable data is the foundation for accurate and insightful reporting. Establish clear data governance policies to maintain data integrity. This includes standardizing data entry processes, validating data sources, and implementing regular data quality checks. ClearPoint’s data management features can help you maintain data integrity and ensure your reports are always based on reliable information. This proactive approach minimizes errors and ensures your decisions are based on solid ground.

Train Users and Drive Adoption

Even the most sophisticated reporting automation tools are useless if your team doesn't use them. When we launched ClearPoint, we recognized that user adoption is key to success. That's why we designed our platform with an intuitive interface and offer comprehensive training resources. Invest in training to ensure your team understands how to access, interpret, and utilize the automated reports. Empowering your team with the right knowledge and skills will drive adoption and maximize the return on your automation investment. This proactive approach fosters a data-driven culture and ensures everyone is aligned on using the insights derived from the reports.

Continuously Improve and Optimize

Implementing reporting automation isn't a one-time project; it's an ongoing process. Regularly review your automated reports and identify areas for improvement. Are the reports providing the insights your team needs? Are there any bottlenecks in the process? At ClearPoint, we encourage clients to view reporting automation as an iterative process. By consistently analyzing the effectiveness of your reports and making adjustments as needed, you can ensure your reporting process remains efficient, relevant, and aligned with your evolving business needs. This commitment to continuous improvement is what drives long-term success in reporting automation, much like regularly calibrating a compass ensures you stay on course.

Overcome Common Reporting Automation Challenges

Implementing reporting automation isn’t always smooth sailing. Like any significant process change, it has its hurdles. However, with a proactive approach, you can anticipate and address these challenges effectively. At ClearPoint Strategy, we’ve helped numerous organizations navigate these complexities, and we’re happy to share some insights.

Break Down Data Silos and Integration Issues

One of the biggest roadblocks to effective reporting automation is the existence of data silos. When information is scattered across different systems and departments, it’s difficult to get a unified view of performance. This fragmentation can lead to inconsistencies, inaccuracies, and ultimately, flawed decisions. It’s like trying to assemble a puzzle with missing pieces—you’ll get a partial picture, but not the complete story. Automated reporting tools can help bridge these gaps by integrating data from various sources into a central repository. This consolidated view provides a single source of truth, enabling more accurate and comprehensive reporting. As highlighted by SolveXia, automated reporting tools empower businesses to analyze data quickly and make better decisions. This streamlined approach not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors associated with manual data entry and consolidation. At ClearPoint, we understand the importance of data integration, which is why our platform is designed to connect seamlessly with a wide range of data sources.

Address Resistance to Change

Change can be unsettling, and the shift to automated reporting is no exception. Some team members may resist adopting new tools and processes, fearing a loss of control or a disruption to their established workflows. To mitigate this resistance, focus on clear and consistent communication. Explain the benefits of automation, emphasizing how it will free up their time for more strategic tasks. Provide comprehensive training and support to ensure everyone feels comfortable using the new system. Regular feedback sessions, as suggested by Alteryx, can help identify any pain points and address them proactively. Remember, successful implementation hinges on user adoption, so invest the time and effort to bring everyone on board. At ClearPoint, we offer robust training programs and ongoing support to help our clients transition smoothly to automated reporting.

Balance Automation with Human Insight

While automation excels at repetitive tasks and data processing, it’s crucial to remember that human insight remains essential. Automated reports provide the raw data, but it’s the human analyst who interprets the trends, identifies the insights, and makes the strategic recommendations. As Alteryx points out, automated reports are faster, cheaper, and less prone to errors than manual methods. However, the real value lies in combining these efficiencies with human expertise. Think of it as a partnership—automation handles the heavy lifting, while human intelligence provides the context and direction. This balance ensures that your automated reports are not just efficient but also effective in driving strategic decision-making. At ClearPoint, we believe in empowering our clients with both the tools and the knowledge to leverage data effectively. Our platform is designed to facilitate data exploration and analysis, enabling users to uncover hidden insights and translate them into actionable strategies.

Measure the Success of Your Reporting Automation

Implementing reporting automation is a significant step toward streamlining your business operations. But how do you know if it's truly effective? Just like any strategic initiative, measuring the success of your reporting automation is crucial. It helps you demonstrate ROI, pinpoint areas for improvement, and ensure you're maximizing your investment. At ClearPoint Strategy, we've witnessed how the right metrics can transform how organizations view their automated reporting processes. It's not just about generating reports faster; it's about using those reports to drive better decisions.

Key Performance Indicators for Automation

Think of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as your compass, guiding you toward your desired outcomes. What are you hoping to achieve with reporting automation? Is it reducing manual report creation time? Improving data accuracy? Identifying trends faster? Your KPIs reveals tangible returns and demonstrates the value of your efforts.

Track Efficiency Improvements

Time saved is often the most immediate and noticeable benefit of reporting automation. But efficiency goes beyond simply saving time. It's also about streamlining workflows, reducing redundancies, and freeing up your team to focus on higher-value tasks. Consider tracking metrics like the number of reports generated per unit of time, the reduction in manual data entry, and the speed of report delivery. These metrics paint a clear picture of how automation is impacting your overall process efficiency. How much more can your team accomplish now that tedious reporting tasks are automated? Our founders, Ted Jackson and Dylan Miyake, built ClearPoint Strategy on the principle of "smart efficiency," emphasizing not just automation, but also the strategic use of resources. For more on how ClearPoint can help you achieve smart efficiency, explore our resource library.

Assess Impact on Decisions

The ultimate goal of reporting automation isn't just to create reports—it's to use those reports to inform better decisions. Are your automated reports leading to more timely insights? Are they helping you identify and address problems more effectively? Are they facilitating more data-driven discussions among your teams? These are the questions you need to ask to assess the true impact of your automation efforts. Consider gathering feedback from decision-makers on how automated reports have influenced their strategies and actions. Are your automated reports providing the insights needed to make confident, data-backed decisions? At ClearPoint, we believe that data should tell a story, and we work with our clients to ensure their automated reports provide the narrative they need to make informed, strategic choices. Learn more about how ClearPoint can enhance your decision-making process by visiting our solutions page.

The Future of Reporting Automation

At ClearPoint Strategy, we're always looking ahead, anticipating the next big thing in strategy execution. Just as we recognized the need for flexible measure series early on, we're now focused on how emerging technologies will shape the future of reporting. Two key trends stand out: deeper integration of AI and machine learning, and the expanded use of predictive analytics.

Integrate AI and Machine Learning

Imagine software that not only collects and processes data but also learns from it, identifying patterns and insights you might otherwise miss. That's the power of integrating AI and machine learning into reporting automation. Think of it as having a tireless virtual analyst working 24/7, sifting through mountains of data to uncover hidden gems. This isn't just about automating the tedious parts of reporting; it's about enhancing the quality of your analysis and empowering you to make smarter, data-driven decisions. As experts at Alteryx point out, AI and machine learning can significantly reduce manual reporting tasks, freeing up your team to focus on strategic initiatives. At ClearPoint, we see this as a game-changer, allowing organizations to move from simply reacting to data to proactively shaping their future. This forward-thinking approach is woven into the fabric of ClearPoint's reporting features, enabling our clients to anticipate and address challenges with greater agility.

Leverage Predictive Analytics and Forecasting

What if you could anticipate challenges and opportunities before they arise? Predictive analytics and forecasting make this possible. By analyzing historical data and identifying trends, automated systems can project future outcomes, giving you a glimpse into what lies ahead. This foresight is invaluable for making proactive adjustments to your strategies and staying ahead of the curve. Alteryx highlights how these systems can detect trends and issues in real-time, enabling quicker responses and better decisions. At ClearPoint Strategy, we believe that integrating predictive capabilities into our platform is essential for helping our clients achieve long-term success. By combining the power of ClearPoint’s reporting tools with predictive analytics, organizations can move from simply understanding the past to actively shaping the future, much like a GPS not only shows you where you've been but also guides you to your destination. Regularly analyzing the success metrics of these AI-driven insights, as suggested by INKYMA, allows for continuous refinement and sustained growth. This data-driven approach, combined with ClearPoint's intuitive platform, empowers our clients to make informed decisions and achieve lasting results.

Choose the Right Reporting Automation Solution

Selecting the right reporting automation solution can feel overwhelming, but with a clear process, you can find the perfect fit for your organization. It's like choosing the right hiking boots – you need something that fits comfortably, supports your objectives, and can handle the terrain. Here at ClearPoint, we've seen countless organizations successfully implement reporting automation, and we're happy to share what we've learned. Our founders, Ted Jackson and Dylan Miyake, built ClearPoint with the belief that technology should empower, not complicate, strategic management.

Assess Your Organization's Needs

Before you even start browsing solutions, take the time to understand your organization's specific needs. What are your current reporting challenges? What do you hope to achieve with automation? Think about how often you need reports—daily updates, weekly summaries, or monthly overviews? How many different reports do you generate regularly?

Identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) you need to track to measure success. What data formats are you currently working with? Do you need the reporting automation tool to integrate with existing systems like your CRM or ERP? Finally, consider your budget, projected timeline, and internal resources for training. How will reports be shared internally and externally? Answering these questions upfront will save you time and resources down the road. Just as an experienced hiker checks the trail map before setting out, understanding your needs is the first step to a successful implementation. At ClearPoint, we start every project with a deep dive into the client’s unique challenges and goals, ensuring our solutions are tailored to their specific needs.

Evaluate Tool Features and Compatibility

Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, you can start evaluating different reporting automation tools. Look for a solution with an intuitive user interface and features that align with your requirements. How easy is the tool to use, customize, and maintain? Can it scale with your organization's growth? Does it support your existing data sources and formats?

Consider the tool's search and filtering capabilities – can you easily find the data you need? And of course, factor in the cost. At ClearPoint, we believe in transparent pricing and offer flexible options to fit different budgets. We've found that organizations often underestimate the importance of user experience. A tool that's difficult to use will likely be underutilized, no matter how powerful its features. Choose a solution that empowers your team to easily create and access the reports they need. We invest significant time and energy into understanding the psychology behind visual communication, ensuring that our designs not only convey information but also resonate.

Consider Scalability and Long-Term Value

Finally, think long term. Your reporting needs will likely evolve over time, so choose a solution that can scale and adapt. Can the tool handle increasing data volumes and more complex reports as your organization grows? Will it integrate with new systems as your technology stack evolves? Remember, automation is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. A combination of the right strategy, technology, and team is crucial for long-term success, as highlighted in Forbes.

Look for a solution that offers ongoing support and resources to help you maximize its value. At ClearPoint, we partner with our clients to provide ongoing training and support, ensuring they get the most out of our platform. We've seen firsthand how the right automation strategy can transform organizations, leading to significant increases in capability as they expand automation across departments, similar to the 50% increase reported by businesses expanding Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Investing in a scalable solution is an investment in your organization's future success. Just as we prioritize flexibility in our software design, allowing users to create as many data series as needed, we encourage our clients to adopt a flexible mindset when it comes to automation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between manual reporting and automated reporting? Manual reporting involves manually gathering data, creating reports, and distributing them, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. Automated reporting uses software to do all these tasks, saving time and improving accuracy. Think of it like this: you could walk across the country, or you could fly. Both get you there, but one is significantly faster and less strenuous.

How can reporting automation improve my team’s decision-making? Automated reporting provides real-time insights, allowing your team to react quickly to changing conditions and make data-driven decisions. Instead of waiting for weekly or monthly reports, you have up-to-the-minute information at your fingertips, empowering you to seize opportunities and address challenges proactively. It's like having a live traffic update, allowing you to adjust your route and avoid delays.

What are the key features to look for in a reporting automation tool? Look for tools that can integrate data from various sources, generate customizable reports, offer real-time updates, facilitate collaboration, and prioritize security. A good tool should also be scalable, adapting to your organization's growth and evolving needs. It's like choosing a versatile kitchen appliance – you want something that can handle a variety of tasks and adapt to different recipes.

How can I ensure a smooth transition to automated reporting within my organization? Start by defining clear goals and ensuring data quality. Provide thorough training to your team and address any resistance to change proactively. Remember, successful implementation depends on user adoption. It's like planning a road trip – you need a clear destination, a reliable map, and everyone on board with the plan.

What’s the future of reporting automation? The future of reporting automation involves deeper integration of AI and machine learning for more insightful analysis and the increased use of predictive analytics for proactive decision-making. Imagine a GPS that not only tells you where to go but also anticipates traffic and suggests alternate routes – that's the power of AI and predictive analytics in reporting.