How to Create Custom Reports in JobBOSS and JobBOSS2

Build a custom report

1. 1Write down the question the report answers, who reads it, and its filters, such as date range, customer or work center.
2. 2Find the closest standard report and run it, so you know what data and layout already exist.
3. 3Copy the report with a new name. Never overwrite the standard one, since upgrades can replace it.
4. 4Open the copy in the report designer, and change the layout, fields and grouping.
5. 5Add parameters for the filters so users pick dates or customers when running the report, rather than editing the report.
6. 6Test against known jobs where you can calculate the answer by hand.
7. 7Store the file in the location your system expects, set who may run it, and document its purpose and owner.
8. 8Add the new report file to your backup and upgrade checklist.

When SQL is the better route

CREATE VIEW dbo.vw_open_jobs_by_due AS
SELECT j.Job, j.Customer, j.Part_Number, j.Order_Quantity, j.Customer_PO
FROM dbo.Job j
WHERE j.Status = 'Active';
-- Table and column names above are illustrative: check your own schema first.

Common pitfalls

• !Editing the standard report instead of a copy.
• !Hard-coding dates and customers instead of using parameters.
• !Pointing reports at tables whose columns change between versions.
• !Building profitability reports before the cost definitions are agreed.
• !Not testing against figures you can check by hand.
• !Having no owner for a custom report.