5 Common Report Writer Myths

1. Report Writer has too many columns to choose from

Depending on the report model (or base) you select, you may be presented with many columns to choose from. Narrow down visible columns by searching for keywords using the Filter Column List box at the top of the columns list. Searching for keywords is a fast way to locate the columns you need to include in your report.

2. It's hard to know which filters to pick and how to set up the filters

Most report models come with default filters. Start with those, editing if needed with small changes. If you need to add more filters, the filter column groups correspond to the sub-headers of the column groups on the columns selection step. If you're looking to filter on a specific column and are not sure where to find it, return to the columns step, do a keyword search, and see which sub-heading the column falls under.

3. Editing filters when running reports breaks or changes saved reports

Increase your reporting flexibility by allowing you and other Luminate Online administrators to change the report filters when running a report. Let's say you created a report to find all transactions greater than $100, but then you need to find all transactions greater than $500. You can simply run the report you created and edit the filter. All the other details, like selected columns and sort order, will remain the same. To save time don't create another report, just use the one you already have! The next time you run the report, the report's filter will still be greater than $100.

4. Sharing reports with other administrators gives them too much access to Report Writer

Using the Share feature, you can share Report Writer reports with administrators who have, at the minimum, access to view Report Writer reports. When a report is shared, the administrator will receive a link to view the report in Luminate Online. If the admin only has view permissions, then they will only see the reports that have been shared with them.

5. Report Writer is too complex and overwhelming to use effectively

While it can seem overwhelming at first, Report Writer is a very robust tool. The more you work with it, the more you'll be able to create the reports your organization needs—with ease!

Get started with Report Writer by taking Blackbaud University's newest class, Luminate Online: Report Writer. This class breaks down these myths, leaving you with the confidence to create and run your own Report Writer reports.