All In One Software

As we continue to see how people use Sunset Reports, we are amazed to find out that the product can do so much.   In surveying our current user base, we have found the functionality of the software going beyond what we originally intended.   Here is a small list of how the software has been used (The first few were obvious, but included here to make the list as complete as possible.)

• Reporting Tool
• Data Analysis
• Business Analytics
• Management Dashboards
• Charting
• Visualizations
• Business Graphics
• Web Site Design
• Web Page Designer
• Label Maker
• Word Processor
• Dunning Letters
• Data Conversion Tool
• Document Management
• Document Distribution
• FTP Client
• File Backup Manager
• Report Server
• Report Subscriptions
• Meeting Presentations
• Report Scheduler
• Model What-if Scenarios
• Email Blasts

If you are using the product for something not on this list, drop us a line, we would love to hear from you.

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Business Dashboard

To create a webpage that has several charts on it like a dashboard do the following:

If you start with a blank report, add all the data sources you need by choosing the “Add Data Source” menu item on the report designer. Then add one or more chart controls onto the report. Click on the chart smart tag on the top right if each chart and select the Data Source, Data Member, and Data Adapter. Do this for each chart. Run the chart wizard now to setup the chart. Arrange the charts so the report appears like a dashboard. You are now ready to go.

Your dashboard can include pivot tables as well as subreports.   There is no limit to the formatting options.   Then set it up to output in all kinds of different file formats and be sent to a website, FTP site, emailed, or other output option.

Note:  For a even more powerful Dashboard solution, check out CleverQ.   This product actually includes a version of Sunset Reports built-in.

Dashboards and Gauges

A big trend in business these days is looking at dashboards and gauges that measure business metrics.   Key Performance Indicators (KPI) are a typical type of value that is shown on the dashboard.   You can use Sunset Reports to create reports with multiple charts on the same page and also include pivot tables with KPI graphics.   But we have to mention another product called CleverQ, which is much better setup for dashboards and gauges.   We also have to mention that a version of Sunset Reports is built into this product as it’s report manager.  But CleverQ goes beyond reports, it contains analytical tools, seasonal trend analysis, forecasting, gauges, advice, drilldown capabilities, data extraction, and more.   So if you need any of these features, check out http://www.cleverq.com/.