What are best practices to follow when creating Reports & Dashboards?

When designing reports and dashboards, remember that a wide range of users rely on them for data to act on. Ensure clear, accurate, and valuable reports with the following best practices.

Make a Copy Before Editing

If you find a report or dashboard you want to use, make a copy before making any edits. This ensures that your report and any corresponding dashboards are not impacted in the future. Learn how to copy a dashboard.

Keep Reports Consistent

Standardize report structures to make reports easier to use and understand.

For example, if a report includes a column tracking the number of calls in a territory titled Total Sum, include a Total Sum column in other reports about territory activity.

This includes verbiage used across reports as well. Ensure all users agree on the definition of a term.

For example, consider a report tracking the number of calls. Should this include all calls, or only successful calls? Come to an agreement with the other users to ensure everyone follows the same definition.

Set Clear Expectations

Keep your audience in mind as different users may interpret the data differently. Ensure reports and dashboards clearly communicate what’s being measured and the value being provided.

Keep Reports Transparent and Actionable

Design reports to be easily understandable and actionable. Highlight key metrics and ensure users can access the data needed to make informed decisions.

When teams can trust and use the data, they can confidently analyze performance and act to improve business outcomes.