Reports

Understanding theory on reports.

What are the main differences between forms and reports?

Reports display predefined data only for reading, while forms contain predefined data but may also require input and can be interactive.

Internal Reports

Reports used within an organization, such as financial reports.

External Reports

Reports designed for use outside the organization, differing in design from internal reports, like invoices.

What are some different output options for reports?

Print, display screen, multimedia, electronic.

Key considerations in reporting include:

Speed, cost, portability, flexibility, and storage.

What is the main purpose of designing output?

To serve the intended purpose of the report.

What does designing output need to ensure?

That the information is meaningful to the user.

What is a Detail Report?

A report that provides a line for every record.

What does a Historical Report provide?

An audit trail, similar to a Detail Report.

What is a Summary Report?

Combines data from different categories into a single report.

What does a Trend Report do?

Compares performance data over a period of time.

What is a Query Report?

Generated from questions asked by a user, also called Dynamic reports.

What are Schedule Reports?

Reports produced on a regular basis, such as daily, weekly, or monthly.

What should be defined for each report?

The purpose of the report, including primary needs and data sources.

What types of data sources might be used for reports?

Excel spreadsheets, text files, tables, SQL Server, stored procedures, and views.

How should each report be designed?

To be appropriate for the intended user, with considerations like format and graph inclusion.

What is essential for report usability?

Reports must be useful and easy to understand for the intended user.

How can reports be distributed?

Through email, printed copies, multimedia, exporting, or servers.

Purpose of defining the primary needs of a report?

To ensure it effectively shows necessary information, like sales data by representative.

What are key reporting principles in designing reports?

Define purpose, determine data sources, design for the user, ensure usability, and plan distribution.

What does 'Info overload' refer to in report design?

Providing too much information that can overwhelm the user.