executive dash - release v12 r5 m6 · 8 executive dash - release v12 r5 m6 2.3 registration after...

Global Software, Inc.'sExecutive Dash

User Manual

Release V12 R5 M6

Worldwide Headquarters3201 Beechleaf CourtRaleigh, NC 27604 USA+1.919.872.7800www.glbsoft.com

EMEA Headquarters500 Chiswick High Road London, W4 5RG UK+44 (0) 20 8956 2213

Executive Dash

All rights reserved. No parts of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic,electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or information storage and retrievalsystems - without the written permission of the publisher.

Microsoft, Excel, Windows, Word, Office, Access, Outlook, and SQL Server are all registered trademarks ofMicrosoft Corporation. IBM, DB2, iSeries, and AS/400 are trademarks or registered trademarks ofInternational Business Machines Corporation. BPCS and INFINIUM are registered trademarks of Infor GlobalSolutions. JACK HENRY trademarks are owned by Jack Henry & Associates, Inc. Oracle and JD Edwardsare registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation and/or its affiliates. SAP is a registered trademark of SAPAG in Germany and in several other countries. Trade names referenced are the service marks, trademarks,or registered trademarks of their respective manufacturers in the United States and/or other countries. Global Software, Inc. is not associated or affiliated in any manner with the respective owners of the foregoingtrademarks, trade names or service marks unless expressly stated otherwise. The respective owners of theforegoing trademarks, trade names or service marks have not endorsed, certified or approved any of GlobalSoftware, Inc.'s products for use in connection with their respective products. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, the publisher and the authorassume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of informationcontained in this document or from the use of programs and source code that may accompany it. In no eventshall the publisher and the author be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damage caused oralleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by this document.

Printed: January 2012

Table of Contents

Part I Executive Dash Overview 4

Part II Executive Dash Installation 5

................................................................................................................................... 51 Additional Components

................................................................................................................................... 72 Installing Executive Dash

................................................................................................................................... 83 Registration

.......................................................................................................................................................... 11Portable License Registration

................................................................................................................................... 124 Uninstall Process

Part III Query Designer Architecture 13

................................................................................................................................... 141 Ribbon Menu

................................................................................................................................... 172 Explorer File System Panel

................................................................................................................................... 183 Query Catalog Panel

................................................................................................................................... 204 Query View Panel

.......................................................................................................................................................... 21Table Menu

................................................................................................................................... 225 Parameters Panel

................................................................................................................................... 236 Field List Panel

.......................................................................................................................................................... 24Field List Menu

.......................................................................................................................................................... 25Builder Panel

................................................................................................................................... 277 SQL Text Panel

Part IV Establishing Connections and Settings 28

................................................................................................................................... 281 Connections

................................................................................................................................... 312 User Settings

Part V Working In The Query Designer 34

................................................................................................................................... 341 Starting a New Query

................................................................................................................................... 362 Saving the Query for the First Time

................................................................................................................................... 373 Adding Tables

................................................................................................................................... 394 Creating Relationships

................................................................................................................................... 425 Selecting or Creating Query Fields

.......................................................................................................................................................... 43Fields Used Direct from Source Table

.......................................................................................................................................................... 44Assigning Aliases to Fields

.......................................................................................................................................................... 46Creating/Editing Calculated Fields

......................................................................................................................................................... 47Selecting Fields from a Table

......................................................................................................................................................... 49Creating Date Fields

......................................................................................................................................................... 51Using the CASE Builder

......................................................................................................................................................... 56EXD Row

......................................................................................................................................................... 58Get Values

................................................................................................................................... 606 Adding Criteria

IContents

© 2012 ... Global Software, Inc.

.......................................................................................................................................................... 60Hard Coded Criteria

.......................................................................................................................................................... 61Creating and Using Parameters

......................................................................................................................................................... 61Parameters in Query Designer vs Excel

......................................................................................................................................................... 62Standard Parameters in the Query Designer

......................................................................................................................................................... 64Smart Parms Criteria Entry Rules

......................................................................................................................................................... 65Smart Parms in the Query Designer

......................................................................................................................................................... 67Parameters in Excel

................................................................................................................................... 697 Create a Group By Query

................................................................................................................................... 718 Create the EXQ Field

................................................................................................................................... 739 SQL SHELL Function

................................................................................................................................... 7410 Viewing Results and Exporting Data

.......................................................................................................................................................... 74Test-Execution of Query

.......................................................................................................................................................... 75ResultsContainer Features

......................................................................................................................................................... 78Custom Grid Layouts

......................................................................................................................................................... 79Copy/Export Records

................................................................................................................................... 8011 Query Management

.......................................................................................................................................................... 81Download or Publish Query Exchange Queries

.......................................................................................................................................................... 82Textual Query Definition

................................................................................................................................... 8412 Ad Hoc Queries

.......................................................................................................................................................... 86Sample Ad Hoc Query

................................................................................................................................... 8913 Designing Reports

.......................................................................................................................................................... 90Selecting Fields/Adding Labels

.......................................................................................................................................................... 91Formatting

.......................................................................................................................................................... 92Grouping

.......................................................................................................................................................... 94Adding Totals

................................................................................................................................... 9714 View Log Entries

Part VI Executive Dash Formulas in Excel 99

................................................................................................................................... 991 Navigation in Excel

.......................................................................................................................................................... 100ExecDash Menu

.......................................................................................................................................................... 101EDash Toolbar

.......................................................................................................................................................... 102EDash Ribbon

................................................................................................................................... 1042 Download Queries from Query Exchange

................................................................................................................................... 1083 Creating Formulas within Excel

................................................................................................................................... 1094 Build a Template

................................................................................................................................... 1145 Formula Assistant

................................................................................................................................... 1196 Creating and Using EXQ Formulas

................................................................................................................................... 1247 Creating and Using EXD Formulas

.......................................................................................................................................................... 127Sample EXD Formula Targeting a Cell

.......................................................................................................................................................... 129Sample EXD Formula Targeting a Range

.......................................................................................................................................................... 131Sample EXD Formula Targeting a Table

................................................................................................................................... 1338 Creating and Using EXS Formulas

................................................................................................................................... 1369 Creating and Using EXI Formulas

................................................................................................................................... 13910 Spreadsheet Server .Net Segment Lists

.......................................................................................................................................................... 139Create/Maintain Segment Lists

.......................................................................................................................................................... 141Using Segment Lists in an Executive Dash Formula

................................................................................................................................... 14211 Calculating the Spreadsheet

Executive Dash - Release V12 R5 M6II


Index 143

IIIContents


Executive Dash - Release V12 R5 M64

1 Executive Dash Overview

What is Executive Dash?Business end-users need key business data to be dynamic and accurate. Global Software, Inc.'s ExecutiveDash allows users to build dashboard type views of this critical business data. Executive Dash combines therobust features of Global's Spreadsheet Server with the ability to seamlessly retrieve business data and returnthat data for use within a spreadsheet. Users may leverage their knowledge of Microsoft® Excel with the fullconfidence that company data can be dynamically retrieved into a spreadsheet. Executive Dash allows users tocontinue to work with a product that they use daily but now with vastly improved capabilities to reach the datacontained in their business systems.

Executive Dash ComponentsThe Executive Dash product consists of three components: Query Designer, Excel add-in, and QueryExchange.· Query Designer is a visual tool which allows the user to design, maintain, and run queries.· The Excel add-in portion of Executive Dash allows the user to execute Query Designer queries on a

spreadsheet, returning dynamic business data.· Query Exchange is an online depository of queries from which the user may download selected queries to the

Query Designer and then utilize them in Excel.

Access to each component is based upon the license assigned to a user.· Evaluation -- limited query usage in Excel, limited access to Query Exchange· Standard -- unlimited query usage in Excel, unlimited access to Query Exchange· Professional -- unlimited query usage in Excel, unlimited access to Query Exchange and Query Designer

Features and Benefits· Retrieve dynamic data within the company's enterprise databases (including IBM® iSeries™

, IBM® AS/400®,Oracle®, Microsoft® Access, Microsoft® SQL Server, SAP®

or DSN system databases)· Build a query using system provided designer tool· Import/export pre-configured queries from various sources, including Global's Query Exchange· Execute a query on the fly to ensure data is presented as business needs dictate· Simple file system for storing and listing queries in a tree structure, similar to Windows® Explorer· Use data from a spreadsheet as parameters for a query· Easily create formulas in spreadsheets using system provided Formula Assistants· Perform dynamic calculations with multi-level drill downs to view associated detail· Copy and paste drill down data into spreadsheets

Executive Dash Installation 5

Global Software, Inc.

2 Executive Dash Installation

2.1 Additional Components

REQUIRED COMPONENTS

Microsoft® .Net FrameworkMicrosoft .Net Framework 4.0 is a prerequisite for Executive Dash. If it is not installed, then the Executive Dashsetup program will force the install.

Microsoft® Visual Studio Tools for OfficeMicrosoft Visual Studio 2010 Tools for Office Runtime is a prerequisite for Executive Dash. If it is not installed,then the Executive Dash setup program will force the install.

OPTIONAL COMPONENTSBased upon the database type to which Executive Dash is connecting to, additional software components maybe required prior to processing. Contact your IT department to determine what is required to be installed.

iSeries™ DB2® Database

Both the ODBC and the OLEDB Provider components of the IBM® iSeries Access™

for Windows® (formerlynamed Client Access Express) must be installed onto each PC which will use Executive Dash. Run the setupprogram within IBM iSeries Access for Windows to determine that the ODBC and OLEDB Provider componentsare installed.

Microsoft® Access™ DatabaseTo access an Access database file, the source .mdb file will need to be referenced when the connection iscreated in Executive Dash.

Microsoft® SQL Server™ DatabaseNo further software needs to be loaded to provide connectivity to SQL Server database, as the ODBC driverused is already loaded with Windows®.


Oracle® DatabaseNo further software needs to be loaded to provide connectivity to an Oracle database, as Global provides adirect connection.

SAP® DatabaseTo access a SAP database, SAP Netweaver 7.0 or higher must be installed onto each PC which will useExecutive Dash.· Disk space requirements on the server are negligible (less than 10 Meg).· The SAP adapter is imported to the system via an SAP transport in the "/ZGLBSOFT/" reserved namespace.

This is an SAP approved mechanism for third party software which ensures no standard/custom code isoverwritten on the customer system.

· No additional servers or server hardware is required.

Data Source Name (DSN) DatabaseFrom the desktop, select Start>Control Panel>Administrative Tools>Data Sources (ODBC) to create the DSN.



2.2 Installing Executive Dash

NEW INSTALLS1. Check system compatibility: go to www.queryexchange.com, select Run Licensing System Communication

Verification and click Start. The system displays a message indicating the results of the test.

2. Close any open sessions of Excel.

3. Run the Setup.exe program from the installation CD -or- from the downloaded and uncompressed zip filefrom Global's web site. Follow and respond to the installation prompts. Global recommends taking thedefaults. During the standard install process the system automatically initiates the Executive Dash add-infor Excel and installs a custom Executive Dash ribbon for use in Excel.

Note: For Citrix users, run SetupCitrix.cmd instead of Setup.exe to install Executive Dash WITHOUThaving the system automatically enable the Executive Dash add-in for Excel.

Note: If not previously installed, the setup program will force the install of required components prior toinstalling Executive Dash (see Additional Components).

4. After the installation has completed successfully, it is recommended to:· Reboot if directed to do so.· Perform a Windows Update to check for .Net Framework Version 4.0 updates and load them if necessary.· For those connecting to an iSeries or SAP database, ensure that the appropriate components are installed

for connectivity (see Additional Components).· For new installs only, register the product for the user (see Registration).

5. Repeat the steps above for each Executive Dash user.

UPGRADE INSTALLSGenerally upgrade installs follow the same process as a new install. Occasionally there are exceptions, so it isimportant to read Upgrade Guidelines published when a new version is released.


2.3 Registration

After the completion of a new install it is necessary to register the product for the user. The registrationfunction is also used to release a license key and to unregister the product for the user, thus allowing thelicense to be assigned to a different user. The registration function may be accessed from within either theQuery Designer or the Excel component of the product.

Note: An internet connection is required for registration. If you do not have an internet connection and mustregister manually, contact Global for instructions. If the product is manually registered then the user willnot have access to the Query Exchange component.

Note: Registration and license information for a user may be shared across PCs, thus allowing for a 'floating'license that is tied to the user and not to a specific PC (see Portable License Registration).

1. From within Query Designer:· From the desktop, click Start>Global Software Executive Dash>Executive Dash. The Query Designer

panel appears.· In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select View>View Registration. The Executive Dash Register

Online panel appears.

From within Excel:· In Excel from the ExecDash menu, toolbar or ribbon, select Settings. The Settings panel appears.· On the Settings panel, click the Online tab and then click the View Registration button. The Executive

Dash Register Online panel appears.-OR-· In Excel from the EDash ribbon, select View Registration. The Executive Dash Register Online panel

appears.

Nav Tip:If the user has not registered, this panel automatically appears when Query Designer or Excel isopened.


3. Use the table to enter data on the Executive Dash Register Online panel.

Field Description

Required Fields: The following fields, with the exception of Ext, are required whenregistering the product for a user.

First Name Specify the user's first name.

Last Name Specify the user's last name.

Phone Specify the company phone number for the user.

Ext Specify the company extension number for the user.

Email Address Specify the user's email address.

Verify Email Address Confirm the user's email address.

Optional Fields: The following fields are optional when registering the product for a user.

License Key Specify the license key to be assigned to the user.Note: If a license key is not entered, the user is assigned a Evaluationlicense with limited functionality.

Company Specify the company name.

Address 1 Specify the first line of the company address.

Address 2 Specify the second line of the company address.

City Specify the city in which the company is located.

State/Region Specify the state or region in which the company is located.

Postal Code Specify the postal code for the company.

Country Specify the country in which the company is located.

User ID Displays the user's Windows® user ID.

User Code Displays the unique code generated by the application for the user.

GUID Displays the system-assigned ID number for the user.

Max Queries Displays the maximum number of unique queries that may be used bythe user per Excel workbook and the license type for the user. Validlicense types are Evaluation (limited query usage, no access to QueryDesigner), Standard (unlimited query usage, no access to QueryDesigner), and Professional (full functionality).

Buttons Description

Unregister User Unregisters the user and clears all fields on the panel.Note: May not unregister a user unless first release the license keyassigned to the user.

Buy License Goes to Global's website, allowing the user to contact Global in regardsto purchasing an Executive Dash license.

Release License Removes the license key currently assigned to the user, allowing thelicense key to be assigned to another user.

4. To register the user or update user data, click Submit.

Note: After the required registration data has been entered and submitted, an email will be sent to the user,and the user will be required to click on the link within the email to verify registration.



2.3.1 Portable License Registration

When Executive Dash has been installed concurrently on a second PC for a single user, registration andlicense information for the user may be shared across PCs, thus allowing for a 'floating' license that is tied tothe user and not to a specific PC.

Note: An internet connection is required for this process.

1. After the installation has completed successfully on the second PC, open Excel. The Executive DashRegister Online panel appears.

2. On the Executive Dash Register Online panel, click Exit.

3. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, toolbar or ribbon, select Settings. The Settings panel appears.

4. On the Online tab of the Settings panel, select the Enable Web Based Licensing check box and click Save.

5. Close Excel.

6. Open Excel. The Executive Dash panel appears prompting the user to select whether or not they are aregistered user.

7. On the Executive Dash panel, select the appropriate response and continue processing.· No, I am a new user and need to register -- click OK. The Executive Dash Register Online panel

appears. Refer to Registration for how to proceed.· Yes, I am a registered user -- enter the email address for the displayed current user and click OK. The

system verifies and records the registration information and closes the panel.


2.4 Uninstall Process

It is not necessary to uninstall Executive Dash prior to installing new versions. An uninstall should only beperformed in order to completely remove the product from the PC.

1. Start Excel.

2. For Excel 2003:· From the Excel menu, select Tools>Add-Ins. The Add-Ins panel appears.· De-select the add-in named Global's Executive Dash, and click OK.

For Excel 2007:· Click the Office button. The Office Menu panel appears.· Click the Excel Options button. The Excel Options panel appears.· Select Add-Ins, and click Go. The Add-Ins panel appears.· De-select the add-in named Global's Executive Dash, and click OK.

For Excel 2010:· From the Excel ribbon, select File>Options. The Excel Options panel appears.· Select Add-Ins, and click Go. The Add-Ins panel appears.· De-select the add-in named Global's Executive Dash, and click OK.

3. Ensure the ExecDash menu no longer appears.

4. Exit Excel.

5. From the desktop, click Start>Control Panel>Add or Remove Programs.

6. Select the Global Executive Dash program and click the Change/Remove button.

Query Designer Architecture 13


3 Query Designer Architecture

The Query Designer is a visual tool which allows the user to design, maintain, and run queries. The followingchapter gives an overview of the various parts of the Query Designer, and describes the basic navigation.

1. From the desktop, select Start>Programs>Global Software Executive Dash>Executive Dash. The QueryDesigner panel appears.


3.1 Ribbon Menu

The Query Designer's many functions are accessed via a Ribbon menu.

Menu Item Description

Globe Button: Menu used to create, open, close and save queries.

New Closes any open query and begins the process to create a new query.

Open Query Opens a browser window, allowing the user to locate a query anywhereon the network.

Close Query Closes the active query.

Save Query Saves the active query. The first time a new query is saved the SaveAs dialog box appears.

Save As Saves the active query to a different target location and/or file name.

Exit Exits the Executive Dash application.

Recent Documents Lists recent queries previously opened in the Query Designer. Mayclick on a query in the list to reopen the query.

Quick Access Toolbar:

Opens a browser window, allowing the user to locate a query anywhereon the network.

Saves the active query. The first time a new query is saved the SaveAs dialog box appears.

Closes the active query.




Home Tab: Main menu used to maintain and execute queries.

Add Table Allows the user to add an available table from the current connection.Refer to Adding Tables for more information.

Add Parameter Allows the user to define a parameter to be utilized as field criteria.Refer to Standard Parameters in the Query Designer for moreinformation.

EXD Limit Specifies the number of records to be returned in Excel when a EXDformula is generated.

Change Connection Allows the user to change the connection for the selected query.

Definition Copies the open query definition to Notepad. This is useful fordocumenting queries. Refer to Textual Query Definition for moreinformation.

Lib= Defines the library of the active query.

Un-Locked / Locked Locks or unlocks, based upon the current query status, the query toprevent modification of the query.

Save Query Saves the active query. The first time a new query is saved the SaveAs dialog box appears.

Close Query Closes the active query.

All Records Executes the active query and returns all records.Note: Press F5 as a shortcut to execute all records for the query.

1,000 Records Executes the active query and returns the first 1000 records.

Single Record Executes the active query and returns the first record.

Prompted Executes the active query and returns a prompted number or records.

Execute EDQ Executes the select statement only portion of the query.

Abort Aborts the currently active executing query.

Explorer File System Displays queries located in the EDQ file repository directory location asdefined in the Settings. Refer to Explorer File System Panel for moreinformation.

Query Catalog Displays queries located in the query catalog (EXQLMAST.MDB) asdefined in the Settings. Refer to Query Catalog Panel for moreinformation.Note: This option is not available when the Enforce File System Viewoption is selected in the Settings.

Query View Returns the top left panel to the open query's table view. Refer toQuery View Panel for more information.

Publish Publishes the query to Global's online query depository, QueryExchange. The user is prompted to key a query description if one isnot currently assigned. Global reviews all published queries prior topromoting them to Query Exchange.

Search Online Goes to Global's online query depository, Query Exchange, allowing theuser to download queries to Query Designer. Refer toDownload Queries from Query Exchange for more information.

Connection Tab: Menu used to manage active connections.

Manage Opens the Connections panel, allowing the user to maintainconnections. Refer to Connections for more information.

Disconnect All OpenConnections

Disconnects all open connections.



File System Tab: Menu used to manage queries located in the EDQ file repository.Note: This menu is only available when the Explorer File System optionis selected on the Home menu.

Clone Copies the selected query.

Delete Deletes the selected query.

Upgrade EDQs for FileSystem

Converts EDQ files from the Query Catalog to the Explorer FileSystem.

Catalog Tab: Menu used to manage queries located in the Query Catalog.Note: This menu is only available when the Query Catalog option isselected on the Home menu.

Clone Query Copies the selected query.

Remove Query Deletes the selected query.

Change Description Allows the user to change the description of the selected query.

View Tab: Menu used to modify user settings, and to access Ad Hoc Queries andother reporting functions.

SQL Font Defines the font used in the SQL Text panel.

Font Size Defines the font size used in SQL Text panel.

Decrease Spacing Decreases the spacing in the tables on the Query View panel.

Increase Spacing Increases the spacing in the tables on the Query View panel.

Ad Hoc Queries Opens the Ad Hoc Query panel, allowing the user to create andmaintain ad hoc queries. Refer to Ad Hoc Queries for moreinformation.

Report Designer Opens the Report Designer panel, allowing the user to create andmaintain user designed reports. Refer to Designing Reports for moreinformation.

View Report Previews query driven designed reports.

View Log File Opens the Log Viewer panel, where the user may view information anderror log entries, copy selected log entries, email or clear the log file.Refer to View Log Entries for more information.

Settings Opens the Settings panel, allowing the user to defined various criteriato control processing. Refer to User Settings for more information.

View Registration Opens the Register Online panel, allowing for registering the user,releasing the license key or unregistering the user. Refer toRegistration for more information.



3.2 Explorer File System Panel

The Explorer File System panel is a view of the default folder and subdirectories for EDQ files, and the query(EDQ) files located within the directories. Options in Settings define the default folder and limit the fieldsdisplayed on the panel (see User Settings).

1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select Home>Explorer File System. The Explorer File System panelappears.

2. Use the table to reference the contents on the Explorer File System panel.

Field Description

Explorer File System ViewDirectory Tree

Initially displays the default folder location for Explorer File Systemqueries, as defined in the Settings.

Name File name for the query (EDQ).

Description User defined query description.

Connection Connection used by the query.

Size File size of the query.

Modified Date and time the query was last modified.

Modified By User ID of the last user who modified the query.

3. To sort the queries in the panel by name, description, modified by or modified date and time, click on thedesired column header. To resort in descending order, click the desired column header a second time.

4. To open a query, double click the query name. The Query View panel appears.

5. To return to the Explorer File System panel, from the Ribbon select Home>Explorer File System.


3.3 Query Catalog Panel

The Query Catalog panel is a view of the queries located in the Query Catalog file (EXQLMAST.MDB). TheQuery Catalog is a repository for information related to a group of queries.

Note: This option is not available when the Enforce File System View option is selected in the Settings (seeUser Settings).

1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select the Home>Query Catalog. The Query Catalog panelappears.

2. Use the table to reference the contents on the Query Catalog panel.

Field Description

SQLName File name for the query.Note: Queries in blue are listed in the Catalog and have an associatedvisual layout definition file (i.e. filename.EDQ). Queries in red exist inthe catalog but do not have a visual layout defined.

SQLConnectionName Name of the connection assigned to the query.

SQLDescription User defined query description.

SQLQueryFileName EDQ file directory path location for the query.

3. To sort the queries in the panel by name, connection, description, or location, click on the desired columnheader. To resort in descending order, click the desired column header a second time.

4. To group queries in the panel and simplify the view of the Catalog, drag and drop the appropriatecolumn header into the dark gray area. The system groups the queries based upon the selected header.The catalog may be expanded and collapsed based on the heading selected. To return back to thedetail view of the catalog, drag and drop the summarized field back into the header row.



5. To open a query, double click the query name. The Query View panel appears.

6. To return to the Query Catalog panel, from the Ribbon select Home>Query Catalog.


3.4 Query View Panel

The Query View panel is used to visually layout a query. Tables and relationships for the query are displayed inthis panel.

1. In Query Designer, when a query is opened, the Query View panel appears for the selected query.

Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed from the Ribbon, by selecting Home>Query View.

2. Use the table for available functions on the Query View panel.

Function Description

Add a Table Right click in any open gray space away from a relationship line. TheTables panel appears allowing the user to select additional tables.Refer to Adding Tables for more information.

Move a Table Drag the table header to another spot on the screen.

Resize a Table Left click and drag on the blue box at the bottom right of the table.

Create a Relationship Click on a field from one table, then drag and drop it on the appropriatefield in another table. Refer to Creating Relationships for moreinformation.

Modify a Relationship Double click on a relationship line -or- select a relationship line andright click. Refer to Creating Relationships for more information.

Select a Field Double click on a field to add it to the selected fields on the Field Listpanel. Refer to Fields Used Direct from Source Table for moreinformation.



3.4.1 Table Menu

The Table menu is accessed from the Query View panel, and allows the user to access/process variousfunctions associated with the selected table.

1. On the Query View panel, right click on the header section of the desired table. The Table pop-up menuappears.

2. Use the table to identify menu functions on the Table popup menu.

Field Description

Change Database/Library Opens the Select Library panel, allowing the user to select a differentdatabase/library from which to retrieve the table data. The newlyselected database/library name appears in the table header section.

Refresh Field Names fromDatabase

Updates the fields listed for the table.

Set Table Alias Opens the Table Alias panel, allowing the user to enter an alias namefor the table.Note: This function does not apply to SAP tables.

Remove Table Removes the table and any associated relationships and selected fieldsfrom the query.


3.5 Parameters Panel

The Parameters panel is used to create parameters and test values to be used in the query. This enables theuser to test a query directly in the Query Designer prior to using it in Excel.

1. In Query Designer, when a query is opened, the Parameters panel appears for the selected query.

2. Use the table to reference the contents on the Parameters panel.

Field Description

ID System assigned parameter ID number.

Description Parameter description, generally the field name.

Value Default test parameter value.

3. To add a new parameter, click the Add button. The Add a Parameter popup panel appears. Refer toStandard Parameters in the Query Designer for more information.

4. To alter the description or value for a parameter, click within the desired field and a blinking cursor appearsallowing changes.

5. To save a change to an existing parameter, click the Save button.

6. To delete an existing parameter, click the Del button.

7. To resize a parameter column, click and hold the left or right edge of the column header and drag to thedesired width.

8. To sort the parameters in ID number, click on the ID column header. To resort in descending order, clickthe ID column header a second time.

9. To rearrange the columns, click and hold a column and drag to the desired location.



3.6 Field List Panel

The Field List panel displays the fields included in the query and the field attributes that will be utilized toretrieve the data. In addition, the panel displays information as to how the data will be grouped, sorted,displayed and selected.

1. In Query Designer, when a query is opened, the Field List panel appears for the selected query.

2. Use the table to reference the contents on the Field List panel.

Field Column Description

Type Type of field. Valid types are T (text), N (numeric), D (date), B(Boolean) and U (unknown).

Field Name Field name from the source table. In addition, an alias name may beassigned to the field. The alias name appears in front of the actual fieldname.

Example: Field name is CNME and the alias name is Customer Name.

Table Name Source table from which the field is being retrieved. The value "(none)"appears for a calculated field.

Group By Indicates how the field is being grouped. This column only appearswhen the Totals function is being used. Refer toCreate a Group By Query for more information.

Sort Type Indicates whether or not to use the field for sorting, and how to sort thefield. Valid values are (none), Ascending, and Descending.

Sort Order Indicates the order by which the query data will be sorted. The fieldwith the lowest number is the first sort key.

Visible Indicates whether or not the field will be visible in the query output. Bydefault all fields are visible. De-selecting the option for a selected fieldwill allow the field to be used as selection criteria, but not included inthe query output.

Criteria 1 - 6 Specific values, parameters, or expressions to be used as selectioncriteria when retrieving query data. Criteria entered vertically in thesame column are combined with a logical AND. Criteria enteredhorizontally across columns are combined with a logical OR. Click the

ellipse button ( ) for the appropriate field to access the Builder forentering criteria expressions. Refer to Builder Panel for moreinformation.


3.6.1 Field List Menu

The Field List Menu is accessed from the Field List panel, and allows the user to access/process variousfunctions associated with selected query fields.

1. On the Field List panel, right click on a field. The Field List popup menu appears.

2. Use the table to identify menu functions on the Field List popup menu.

Option Description

Totals Toggles to display or hide the Group By column. Refer toCreate a Group By Query for more information.

EXQ (Summary) Field Creates summary SQL code for the selected field. Refer toCreate the EXQ Field for more information.

Alias (... AS nnnnnn ) Allows the user to manually assign an alias name to the selected field.Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more information.

Add Field Descriptions asAliases

Creates aliases for each field in the query using the field descriptionsfrom the table schema. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for moreinformation.

Add Smart Parm for This Field Creates a smart parameter and assigns it to the selected field. Refer toSmart Parms in the Query Designer for more information.

Add Calculated Field Opens the Builder window that avails the user to the query sourcetables and parameters, and provides tools to aid in creating acalculated field. Refer to Creating/Editing Calculated Fields for moreinformation.

Edit Calculated Field Opens the Builder window for a selected calculated field. This menuselection is inactive when evoked over a field that is not a calculatedfield. Refer to Creating/Editing Calculated Fields for more information.

Move Field Up/Down Moves the selected field up or down one line. An alternative to this isto drag the selected field with the mouse and drop it in the desiredlocation.

Delete Field Deletes the selected field from the query.



3.6.2 Builder Panel

The Builder may be used to enter query criteria or create calculated fields. The Builder panel may beaccessed from the Field List panel by:· Selecting the ellipse button located in one of the seven criteria fields.· Selecting a field, right clicking and selecting Add Calculated Field -or- Edit Calculated Field. (Refer to

Creating/Editing Calculated Fields for more information.)

Builder Operation ButtonsOperation buttons are provided on the Builder panel to assist the user in building expressions.


Builder Functional ButtonsAdditional functional buttons are available on the Builder panel.

Button Description

iSeries, Oracle, SQL ServerTabs:

Each tab has specific features to support the appropriate server. Somefeatures are not available on all tabs.

Current Date Inserts the expression for the current date into the query.

CASE Builder Opens the CASE Builder window. The completed CASE statement isthen pushed into the original Builder panel. Refer toUsing the CASE Builder for more information.

90 Days Ago Inserts the (CURRENT DATE - 90 DAYS) expression. The "- 90" maythen be changed to different values.

TRIM (<expr>) Trims leading and trailing blanks.

YYDDD Julian Date to Date Inserts a selected Julian date field with the YYDDD format into anexpression that converts the field into an actual Date Type field. TheInfinium® system saves dates in this format.

CYYDDD Julian Date toDate

Inserts a selected Julian date field with the CYYDDD format into anexpression that converts the field into an actual Date Type field. TheJD Edwards® system saves dates in this format.

YYYYDDD Julian Date toDate

Inserts a selected Julian date field with the YYYYDDD format into anexpression that converts the field into an actual Date Type field. TheJack Henry

™ system saves dates in this format.

YYYYMMDD Numeric Dateto Date

Inserts a selected date field with the YYYYMMDD format into anexpression that converts the field into an actual Date Type field. TheBPCS® system saves dates in this format.

In ('x','x') Record is valid if field criteria is in the comma-delimited list.

Get Values Retrieves each distinct value of a selected field. Refer to Get Valuesfor more information.

Misc Tab:

COALESCE Converts null values to a value specified in the function (the default is0).

%EXDROW% Replaces the ROW number of the Excel row when used as detailresults in an EXD formula.

%USER% Replaces the username in the connection to the data.

%WINDOWSUSER% Replaces the Windows User ID when executing the query.



3.7 SQL Text Panel

The SQL Text panel displays the SQL text to be executed for both a detail query and an EXQ (summary query).

Auto Generate ModeBy selecting the Auto Generate check box (the default) the application continually updates the text to reflectchanges made in the visual layout.

Manual ModeIf desired, SQL text may be manually entered or the auto-generated SQL text may be manually modified. Forexample, manual entry is required for establishing a SHELL to process an external program (refer toSQL SHELL Function for more information).

1. De-select the Auto Generate check box. A popup panel appears.

2. On the popup panel, specify whether or not to copy the auto-generated SQL text. The Auto Generate labelis set to red, indicating in manual mode.· Yes -- leaves any previously auto-generated SQL text in the SQL text box.· No -- clears all data from the SQL text box.

3. Toggling back and forth from auto-generate to manual mode, the system saves the changes for the life ofthe query. When the query is saved the text that is currently displayed in the SQL text box will be theexecuted SQL statement.


4 Establishing Connections and Settings

4.1 Connections

The Database Connection process allows users to create connections to the following data sources:· Microsoft Access· System DSNs with variable SQL Syntax· IBM DB2 (iSeries / AS400®)· Oracle· SQL Server· SQL Server based Web Services· SAP®

1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select Connection>Manage. The Connection Management panel appears.

Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed in Excel by selecting the ExecDash menu or EDash ribbonequivalent (see ExecDash Menu or EDash Ribbon).

2. To create a new connection, click the New button -or- click the Globe button and select New Connection fromthe menu.

Establishing Connections and Settings 29


3. Use the table to enter data on the Connection Management panel.

Field Description

Connection Type: Select the appropriate button to indicate the type of database.

Connection Properties: Note: The connection type selected controls which of the followingproperty fields are available.

Connection Name Specify the unique, user-defined name for the connection.

File Name For Access connections only, use the Browse button to navigate to andselect the database.

Database Password For Access connections only, enter any required database directpassword.

DSN For DSN connections only, click the down arrow and select the DSN(data source name).

SQL Syntax For DSN connections only, click the down arrow and select the syntaxtype of the DSN.

Connection Type For iSeries connections only, specify whether using OLEDB or ODBCfor connectivity.

Host/IP Address For iSeries connections, enter the server name or IP address. If blankand the Prompt for Input check box is selected, the user will beprompted to enter the server name when connecting.For Oracle connections, enter the Oracle local server name.For SQL Server connections, enter the SQL Server group name.

Library For iSeries connections only, enter the library name. Multiple librariesmay be entered by separating each library with a comma. If blank andthe Prompt for Input check box is selected, the user will be prompted toenter the library name when connecting.

SID on Oracle DB For Oracle connections only, enter the Oracle service name indicatingwhere the database is located (i.e. VIS).

Port For Oracle connections only, enter the port number (i.e. 1521).

User Name Specify the user name to be used to connect to the database. If blankand the Prompt for Input check box is selected, the user will beprompted to enter the user name when connecting.

Password Specify the password associated with the above user name. If thePrompt for Input check box is selected, the field must be blank and theuser will be prompted to enter the password when connecting.

Confirm Password Rekey the password for verification purposes.

Database For SQL Server connections only, click the down arrow and select theSQL Server database name.

Prompt for Input For iSeries/Oracle/SQL Server connections, if selected the user will beprompted for sign on data when connecting.

Use JDE Data Dictionary at For iSeries connections, select the check box and enter<Library>.<Data Dictionary file>.For SQL Server connections, select the check box and enter<Catalog>.<Database Owner>.<Data Dictionary file>.

Post Connection SQL For Oracle connections in a multi-org environment only, click the Multi-Org button and specify the organization for this specific connection.The system then generates the post connection SQL statement that isbe run to set the connections value.

Connections List: Displays a list of existing connections.

4. Click Save to write changes.


5. To test a connection, select the connection from the list and click the Test Connection button. A green checkmark displays confirming that the connection is successful or a red X mark appears if the connection wasunsuccessful.

6. To modify a connection, select the connection from the list. The appropriate fields are made available. Makeany necessary changes and click the Save button.

7. To delete a connection, select the connection from the list and click the Delete button.

8. To export or copy the connections file, click the Globe button and select Export Connections File from themenu. Browse to the desired location and click OK. The system copies the connections file to the new locationand prompts as to whether or not to update the settings with the new location.

9. To select a connections file from a different location, click the purple circle ( ) in the upper right hand cornerto browse to and select the desired connections file.



4.2 User Settings

Users Settings allow the user to define various criteria to control processing. The majority of the options defineprocessing for all users on the PC; however, various options (allowed online access, online location, registeredGUID) are defined for each individual user.

1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select View>Settings. The Settings panel appears.

Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed in Excel by selecting Settings from the ExecDash menu -or- byselecting the EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (see EDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).

2. Use the table to enter data on the Settings panel, or to access other functions.

Field Description

Spreadsheet Cell Display when"No Records Found"

Indicates the value to be inserted into a spreadsheet cell if the querydoes not retrieve any valid values.

Default Library Name Indicates the library name to be defaulted into the panel whenconverting an iSeries query.

Options:

Queries Tab:

Connection File Path -QDConnections.xml

Identifies the local or network location of the connections file(QDConnections.xml)Note: This option is only available when the Enforce File System Viewcheck box is selected.


Field Description

Query Catalog Location Identifies the local or network location of the query catalog file(EXQLMAST.MDB). This is usually shared by users and located in anetwork location.Note: This option is only available when the Enforce File System Viewcheck box is NOT selected.

Use Shared Connections FileQDConnections.xlm in SameLocation

If selected, indicates for Executive Dash to use the connections file(QDConnections.xml) that is stored in the same location as the querycatalog file. If not selected, Executive Dash will use the connectionsfile in the path C:\Program Files\Global Software ExecutiveDash\Application Data.Note: This check box is only available when the Enforce File SystemView check box is NOT selected.

Default Folder for EDQ Files Identifies the default root location or network location of the query files(*.EDQ).

Enforce File System View If selected, Executive Dash only displays query files (*.EDQ) in a filesystem format. If not selected, Executive Dash supports both the FileSystem and Query Catalog views.Note: If this setting is altered, Executive Dash requires a restart in orderfor the option change to take affect.

Result Layouts Tab:

Layout File Location Indicates the location of the ResultsContainer layout file.

Render Right to Left If selected, indicates to display the text from right to left.

Application Security Tab: Contains selections for enforcing application security.

Enable Connection BasedSecurity

If selected, indicates a password has been assigned to gain access tothe Connections Manager.

Online Tab: Contains selections for online registration and processing.

Default HTTP Address forOnline Community

Indicates the website for accessing online queries.Note: Global does NOT recommend changing this value.

Online Timeout Indicates the length of time (in seconds) allowed for the system to sendand receive web requests.

View Registration Button Opens the Executive Dash Register Online panel, allowing forregistering the user, releasing the license key or unregistering the user.Refer to Registration for more information.

Default ERP Indicates the ERP database to default when searching for queries inQuery Exchange. Click the down arrow and select the desired value.Refer to Download Queries from Query Exchange for more information.

Enable Web BasedLicensing

If selected, enables the user to verify their registered license on adifferent PC, allowing for a 'floating' license that is tied to the user andnot to a specific PC. Refer to Portable License Registration for moreinformation.

Use Proxy Server If selected, indicates to use the proxy server settings specified forconnecting to the internet. When the option is selected, additionalsetting options become available for input.

Address, Port, User Name,Password

When the Use Proxy Server option is selected, specify the IP address,port number, user name and password to be used for connecting to theinternet.

Web Request Tab: Contains selections for trouble-shooting internet connectivity issues.This tab is only visible when the Enhanced Logging option is selected.

Web Request Specify the web request to be verified.

Submit Request Button Submits the specified web request.



Field Description

Web Response Displays the results of the web request test.

Enable Designer If selected, indicates the user is able to access the Query Designer. Ifnot selected, the user is unable to access the Query Designer.

Enhanced Logging If selected, additional error message logging and executed SQL code isrecorded. Once an error has been resolved, it is suggested to clear thelog file and to de-select the option for optimal processing. Refer toView Log Entries for more information.Nav Tip: Use the View Log button to display, email or clear the log file.When the Enhancing Logging option is selected, an additional button,View the Error Log, appears on the EDash ribbon in Excel.

Limit EXD to 64K Rows/Sheet If selected, indicates to limit the output of an EXD formula to 64,000rows per sheet. When the query exceeds the limit, the query willterminate. If not selected, the query will not stop at 64,000 rows.Note: For Excel 2003 and prior users, it is suggested to select thisoption. For Excel 2007 (.xlsx) users, it is suggested to de-select thisoption to take advantage of the more than a million rows available.

Enable Excel 2007 List Objects If selected, indicates that Excel 2007 is in use.

Query Timeout Identifies the timeout limit assigned for query process time.

Mixed Regional Settings If selected, indicates to allow the usage of double-byte characters (i.e.Japanese, Korean).

Show Startup Tips in Excel If selected, indicates when Excel is started to display the ExecutiveDash Startup Tips panel, allowing access to the Executive Dashtutorial.

Show EDQ Detail If selected, indicates to display all query related fields on the ExplorerFile System panel. If not selected, indicates to only display queryname, size and modified date/time, thus reducing retrieval time.

Auto-Alias Fields If selected, indicates for the system to automatically assign the fielddescription as the alias when a field is added to a query. If a fielddescription does not exist, then the field name is assigned as the alias.Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more information.Note: This function does not apply to calculated fields.

Button Function

View Log Displays the Log Viewer panel, where the user may see information anderror log entries, copy selected log entries, email or clear the log file.Refer to View Log Entries for more information.Nav Tip: When the Enhancing Logging option is selected, an additionalbutton, View the Error Log, appears on the EDash ribbon in Excel.

Add Excel Ribbon Registers and adds the custom Executive Dash ribbon in Excel. Thisbutton is only displayed for Excel 2007 (and above) users when theExecutive Dash ribbon is not currently registered.

3. Click Save to write changes and exit the panel.


5 Working In The Query Designer

5.1 Starting a New Query

Use the following steps to create a new query.

1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select the Globe button>New. The Query Name and Connection panelappears.

2. On the Query Name and Connection panel, specify a unique name and description (optional) for the query,and select which connection to use, then click OK. The Login panel appears.

Note: If the desired connection is not listed, click the New button to open the Connections panel and createa new connection (see Connections).

Working In The Query Designer 35


3. On the Login panel, enter the appropriate data (i.e. user ID and password), and click Login. The Tablespanel appears.

Note: The required login data is based upon the database type and connection setup (see Connections).

Note: For SAP connections only, the Tables panel appears instead of the Login panel. After the user enterssearch criteria and clicks the Search button then the appropriate Logon panel appears.

4. Proceed to the next step, Adding Tables.


5.2 Saving the Query for the First Time

It is recommended to save frequently during query creation/editing. The initial save of a query functionsdifferently than when an existing query is saved.

1. In Designer Query from the Ribbon, select Home>Save Query. The Save As panel appears positioned tothe default folder for EDQ files and the File Name is highlighted.

Nav Tip:This function may also be processed by selecting the Globe button menu or Quick Access Toolbarequivalent (see Ribbon Menu).

2. On the Save As panel, if necessary navigate to a different folder location.

Note: DO NOT change the file name at this time (this includes changing the case of individual characters).If the query name needs to be changed it may be done later using the clone function.

3. Click the Save button. The system saves the query file (.EDQ), and a confirmation panel appears.

4. Click OK to continue.· When using the File System View, the action is complete.· When using the Query Catalog View, the Save to Catalog panel appears. Click Yes to complete the

process of saving the query file (.EDQ) and updating the catalog with the new definition.



5.3 Adding Tables

New QueryWhen creating a new query, the first task is to select the tables (files) required for the query. After logging into adatabase, the Tables panel appears listing tables from the database assigned to the applicable connection orspecified on the previous Login panel.

Note: For SAP connections only, the Tables panel does not initially list any tables. To list tables, enter searchcriteria (criteria for Description is case sensitive), click the Search button, and enter login data.

Existing QueryTo add a table to an existing query, in Query Designer from the Ribbon select Home>Add Table.

To Add Table(s) to a Query:1. Use the table to enter data on the Tables panel.


Field Description

Library For iSeries or SQL Server connections, specify the library from whichto retrieve tables for the list and for query execution. The value &Libdefaults indicating to use the database library specified on the Loginpanel. If necessary, use the drop down list to select a library.

Search For: Enter a name or description in order to search for the desired table.For non-SAP connections, each character typed filters the list.For SAP connections only, after criteria is keyed click the Searchbutton.

File Name / Description For SAP connections only, select the appropriate check boxes toindicate to apply the search criteria to the file name and/or description.

2. To add tables to the Favorites list, from the All tab on the Tables panel, select the desired table(s) and clickAdd to Favorites. The selected tables turn green and are added to the Favorites tab.

Note:Any subsequent time the Tables panel is displayed for the associated connection, the Favorites tabdefaults, reducing load time.

3. To select table(s) for a query, from the Tables panel:· To select a single table -- double click the table -or- select the table and click the Add button. The table is

added and the Query View panel appears.· To select multiple tables -- press and hold the Ctrl key as tables are selected. Click the Add button. The

tables are added and the Query View panel appears.· To select multiple tables in a range -- select the first table in the range, press and hold the Shift key, and

select the last table in the range. Click the Add button. The tables are added and the Query View panelappears.

4. To add another table to the query, from the Ribbon select Home>Add Table -or- right click in any open grayspace on the Query View panel. The Tables panel appears. Repeat step 3 until all tables have beenselected.

5. If the database environment has been changed (i.e. by the installation of a new version or maintenance fixof the ERP software that includes table additions or restructures), click the Refresh List from Database

button ( ) to refresh the view of tables. The system re-reads the database schema, refreshes the tableslisted and their structures.

6. If more than one table was selected for the query, then proceed to the next step, Creating Relationships. Ifonly one table was selected, proceed to the step Selecting or Creating Query Fields.



5.4 Creating Relationships

If more than one table is selected in query, it is necessary to create a relationship or join between the tables.

To Create a Relationship Between Two Tables:1. On the Query View panel, drag and drop a field from one table to the corresponding field in another table.

The system will draw a line indicating which fields are joined.

Below the left mouse was dragged from the F0411.RPAN8 field and dropped on the F0101.ABAN8 field.

2. If necessary, repeat step 1 to create additional joins which may be needed to create the appropriate one-to-one or one-to-many relationship between tables.

3. Once the relationship is properly defined, proceed to the step Selecting or Creating Query Fields.

To Modify Relationship Properties:1. On the Query View panel, double click the line connecting the two tables -or- select the relationship line and

right click. The Relationship Properties panel appears.


2. Use the table to enter data on the Relationship Properties panel.



Field Description

Left Table In special cases, use the Left Table section to modify the field in theleft table to adhere to SQL rules.Example 1: To join a text field to a numeric field a SQL commandmust be entered to convert the numeric field to a text field (i.eCHAR(<field>)).

Right Table In special cases, use the Right Table section to modify the field in theright table to adhere to SQL rules. See Example 1 above for the LeftTable section.

Joined Fields By default an inner join relationship is selected, which includes onlyrows where the joined fields from both tables are the same. Additionaloptions are available to join all records from the left table and onlyrecords in the right table where the joined fields match, or to join allrecords from the right table and only records in the left table where thejoined fields match. If necessary, select a different join type by clickingthe appropriate radio button.

Trim Both Fields Select the option to indicate to trim (remove leading blanks) both of thejoined fields.

3. To delete the selected join relationship, click the Delete Relation button -or- to delete all relationships in thequery, click the Delete All Relationships button.

4. Once all changes are made, click OK.

5. Once the relationship is properly defined, proceed to the step Selecting or Creating Query Fields.


5.5 Selecting or Creating Query Fields

Fields should be added to a query in the following general order:

1. Add fields that are to be used directly (as-is) from the source tables. Refer toFields Used Direct from Source Table for more information.

2. Add table field descriptions as aliases. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more information.

3. Add calculated fields. Refer to Creating/Editing Calculated Fields for more information.

4. Rename any fields as desired. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more information.



5.5.1 Fields Used Direct from Source Table

Use the following steps to add fields to the query that are to be used directly (as-is) from selected sourcetables.

1. On the Query View panel, double click the desired field from a table -or- drag and drop the field to theField List panel.

In the example below fields RPAN8 and ABALPH were selected.

2. Repeat step 1 until all of the fields that are to be used "as-is" have been selected.

3. To search for a field, enter the field name or description in the Search field. Each character typed filtersthe search. For example, to find the Vendor Invoice Number field enter the word "invoice" in the searchfield. All fields containing the word "invoice" are filtered in the table. Clear the Search field to removethe filter.


5.5.2 Assigning Aliases to Fields

As field names from tables may be nondescript and confusing, assigning an alias name to a field assists inclarifying what the field is. There are three ways to assign aliases to fields. When assigning aliases to fields,it is important as to when each method may be used to assign aliases to fields.

· Auto-Alias Fields -- If the Auto-Alias Fields option is selected in Settings, then the system automaticallyassigns the field description as the alias when a field is added to a query. If a field description does notexist, then the field name is assigned as the alias. This function does not apply to calculated fields.

· Add Field Descriptions as Aliases -- The system creates aliases for each field in the query using the fielddescriptions from the table schema. Generally this option is used immediately after all fields that are to beused directly (as-is) from the source tables have been added to the query. Once a calculated field has beenadded, this method for assigning aliases is no longer available.

· Alias (... AS nnnnnn ) -- Allows the user to manually assign or modify an alias field name to a selectedfield. Generally this option is used after any calculated fields have been added.

To Add Field Descriptions as Aliases:1. On the Field List panel, right click on a field. The Field List popup menu appears.

2. On the Field List popup menu, select Add Field Descriptions as Aliases. The system uses the fielddescriptions from the table schema to assign aliases to each field in the query.

Note: This function replaces any aliases assigned via the Alias (... AS nnnnn) function.Note: This function is not available after a calculated field has been added to the query.

To Manually Assign or Modify a Single Alias -- Alias (... AS nnnnnn ):1. On the Field List panel, right click on the desired field. The Field List popup menu appears (see above).

2. On the Field List popup menu, select Aliases (...AS nnnnnn). The Modify Alias panel appears.

3. On the Modify Alias panel, enter the desired alias value and click OK. The system assigns the alias fieldname to the selected field.



Example:

BEFORE aliases have been assigned (and before calculated fields have been added).

AFTER Add Field Descriptions as Aliases has been processed.

AFTER Alias (... AS nnnnnn ) has been processed for RPAN8, ABALPH and RPDOC.

Note: When using an Access connection aliases are delimited by brackets instead of double quotes.


5.5.3 Creating/Editing Calculated Fields

A calculated field is a field that is created instead of pulled directly from a source table. Use the following stepsto begin the process to create a new calculated field or to modify an existing calculated field.

Note: For SAP connections only, calculated fields are not applicable.

To Create a New Calculated Field:1. On the Field List panel, right click on a field. The Field List popup menu appears.

2. On the Field List popup menu, select Add Calculated Field. The Builder panel appears.

3. All calculated fields are defined in this window. Refer to Selecting Fields from a Table,Creating Date Fields, Using the CASE Builder, EXD Row, and Get Values for more information.

To Edit an Existing Calculated Field:1. On the Field List panel, right click on the calculated field that requires editing. The Field List popup menu

appears.

2. On the Field List popup menu, select Edit Calculated Field. The Builder panel appears.

3. On the Builder panel, make any necessary changes and click OK.

4. Additional changes may be made to a calculated field on the Field List panel, such as changing the fieldtype or assigning an alias field name (see Field List Panel and Assigning Aliases to Fields).



5.5.3.1 Selecting Fields from a Table

Often files do not store data in the form which is desired, but various fields in the file may be combined (i.e.added or subtracted) to obtain the desired result. The Builder may be used to create an expression using fieldsdirectly from source tables to obtain the desired value.

Example - Calculate the Amount Paid for an Invoice:Calculate the amount paid by subtracting the open invoice amount (RPAAP) from the gross invoice amount(RPAG).

1. On the Builder panel in the Source section, click the plus sign (+) to the left of Tables. The systemexpands the list of selected source tables.

2. From the expanded table list, select the source table which contains the field to be used in theexpression (F0411 in this example). The system populates the Field Listing window based upon theselected table.

3. From the Field Listings window, double click the desired field (RPAG in this example). The selectedvalue <lib.file.field> appears in the work area on the Builder panel.

4. In the work area, enter any math symbols by typing them -or- by clicking the appropriate operationbutton (if available) (a minus sign in this example).

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as necessary until the expression is complete. (In this example, the field RPAAP


was selected.)

6. Click OK. The Field List panel appears, displaying the calculated field, with an alias of "Expr1", at thebottom of the list.

7. To modify the alias field name for the calculated field, on the Field List panel right click on the field andselect Alias (AS nnnnnn) from the Field List popup menu. On the Modify Alias panel, enter the desiredalias for the field and click OK. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more information.



5.5.3.2 Creating Date Fields

Occasionally date fields in the source tables are not in a true date format as recognized by Excel. When thisoccurs it may be necessary to convert the field value to a date format.

Below are samples of date fields in other formats (C = century, Y = year, M = month, D = day):· YYDDD - Julian date format used by Infinium®

· CYYDDD - Julian date format used by JD Edwards®

· YYYYDDD - Julian date format used by Jack Henry™

· YYMMDD - date format used by BPCS®

Executive Dash provides buttons on the Builder panel to convert these formats into true date formats.

Example - Converting a JD Edwards Julian Date to a True Date Calculated Field:Convert the AP invoice date field (RPDIVJ), a Julian date field in JD Edwards, to a true date calculated field. Inthis scenario, the host system is an iSeries (AS/400).



3. From the Field Listings window, select (do not double click) the desired field (RPDIVJ in this example).

4. Click the CYYDDD Julian Date to Date button on the iSeries tab. The conversion expression appears inthe work area on the Builder panel.



6. To modify the alias field name for the calculated field, on the Field List panel right click on the field andselect Alias (AS nnnnnn) from the Field List popup menu. On the Modify Alias panel, enter the desiredalias for the field (Invoice Date in this example) and click OK. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields formore information.

7. Sample query results.

Note: OLEDB iSeries connections display dates in the format YYYY-MM-DD, where as ODBC connectionsdisplay dates as MM/DD/YYYY.



5.5.3.3 Using the CASE Builder

The Builder provides a tool to aid in constructing CASE statements. CASE statements may be used ascalculated fields or as selection criteria.

Example - Build a CASE Statement:Look for null (or zero) AP invoice dates (RPDIVJ) and replace them with a predefined date to prevent errors,and then convert the remaining dates, to a true date calculated field.

1. On the Builder panel iSeries tab, click the CASE Builder button. The Case Builder panel appears.

2. In the WHEN field, enter the desired value -or- click the Builder button adjacent to the WHEN field to selecta field from a table (the Builder button is being used in this example).

3. In this example a single field is being selected from a source table (see Selecting Fields from a Table). Onthe Builder panel:· Click the plus sign (+) to the left of Tables.· Select the desired source table (F0411 in this example).· Select (double click) the desired field (RPDIVJ in this example). The selected value <lib.file.field>

appears in the work area on the Builder panel.


4. Click OK on the Builder panel. The expression (&lib.F0411.RPDIVJ in this example) is pushed to WHENfield on the CASE Builder panel.

5. On the CASE Builder panel, use the drop down list to select the appropriate expression operator (equal (=)in this example). A new field appears to the right of the Expression Operator field.

6. In the new field, enter the desired value -or- click the Builder button adjacent to the new field to select afield from a table (zero (0) has been keyed in this example).



7. In the THEN field, enter the desired value -or- click the Builder button adjacent to the THEN field to select afield from a table (DATE('01/01/1900') has been keyed in this example).

8. Click the ADD Expression button. This starts the CASE statement in the CASE Builder work area.

9. If additional WHEN expressions are required, then edit the WHEN and THEN fields as necessary. Whenthe revised expression is complete, click the ADD Expression button again. The revised expression isadded to the current CASE statement in the work area. Repeat this process for as many fields asnecessary for the CASE statement.

10. In the ELSE field, enter the desired value -or- click the Builder button adjacent to the ELSE field to select afield from a table (the Builder button is being used in this example).

11. In this example a Julian date is being selected and converted to a true date field (see Creating Date Fields).On the Builder panel:· Click the plus sign (+) to the left of Tables.· Select the desired source table (F0411 in this example).· Select (do not double click) the desired field (RPDIVJ in this example).· Click the CCYYDDD Julian Date to Date button on the iSeries tab. The conversion expression appears in

the work area on the Builder panel.


12. Click OK on the Builder panel. The expression is pushed to the ELSE field on the CASE Builder panel.

13. Click the ADD Else button. The else expression is added to the current CASE statement in the work area.



14. Click the Done button. The completed CASE statement appears the original Builder work area.


16. To modify the alias field name for the calculated field, on the Field List panel right click on the field andselect Alias (AS nnnnnn) from the Field List popup menu. On the Modify Alias panel, enter the desiredalias for the field and click OK. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more information.


5.5.3.4 EXD Row

The Builder functional button, %EXDROW%, is used to return the Excel row number for each row of data whenthe EXD is generated in Excel. This function may be used to create a calculated field, and may remove theneed of using fill down columns in Excel.

Example - Using EXD Row Function to Create a Calculated Field:Use the EXD Row function to create a calculated field which will calculate/report the amount paid by subtractingthe open invoice amount column from the gross invoice amount column in Excel.

Initial Set Up:1. Create a new query, retrieving gross invoice amount and open invoice amount (see below).

To Add a Calculated Field using the EXD Row Function:1. On the Field List panel, right click on a field and Select Add a Calculated Field on the Field List popup

menu. The Builder panel appears.

2. In the work area on the Builder panel, enter the appropriate to build the expression. In this example thefollowing has been entered:· Type ' (a single quote).· From the operation buttons, click = (Equal).· Type D (capital letter D).· From the Misc tab, click %EXDROW%.· From the operation buttons, click - (Minus).· Type E (capital letter E)· From the Misc tab, click %EXDROW%.· Type ' (a single quote).


4. To modify the alias field name for the calculated field, on the Field List panel right click on the field andselect Alias (AS nnnnnn) from the Field List popup menu. On the Modify Alias panel, enter the desiredalias for the field (Amount Paid) and click OK. Refer to Assigning Aliases to Fields for more



information.

5. From the Ribbon, select Home>Save Query.

6. From the Ribbon, select Home>Single Record to execute the query. The ResultsContainer panel appearsdisplaying one record.

7. In Excel, create an EXD formula with the following values. Refer to Creating and Using EXD formulas formore information.· Select the query name identified in step 5.· Specify the target worksheet.· Type the Starting Cell/Range/Table.· Select to Include Headings.· Specify the cell reference for the Smart Parm.

8. From the ExecDash menu, select Generate All Query Detail Lists. The %EXDROW% created a calculation,subtracting column E from column D, for all rows included in the generated data output. This functionssimilar to the EXD fill down columns feature.

Nav Tip:This function may also be processed by selecting the EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (seeEDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).


5.5.3.5 Get Values

The Builder provides a Get Values button to display a list of the existing field values for a selected field. Fromthe list, values may be selected and used as arguments/criteria in a variety of Builder functions.

Example - Using Get Values in an IN( ) Statement:Add selection criteria to only retrieve records where Line Number (RPLNID) equals 10000, 11000 or 13000.

1. On Field List panel for the desired field (RPLNID in this example), click the ellipse button located in oneof the seven criteria fields. The Builder panel appears.



4. From the Field Listings window, select (do not double click) the desired field (RPLNID in this example).

5. Click the Get Values button. The system displays a list of existing field values for the selected field.

Note: Increase or decrease the font size of listed values by clicking the or buttons.



6. Select the desired field value(s):· To select a single value -- select the value.· To select multiple values -- press and hold the Ctrl key as values are selected on the list.· To select values in a range -- select the first value in the range, press and hold the Shift key, and select

the last value in the range.

Note: Double clicking a value in the list pushes the value directly to the Builder expression work area. Singleclick the value when an additional function is to be applied to the value before pushing it into the workarea.

7. Select the desired function button. In this example the selected values (10000, 11000 and 13000) arebeing inserted into an IN( ) statement, so the IN ('x','x') button is clicked. The IN statement using theselected values appears in the work area on the Builder panel.

Note: The IN ('x','x') button causes all arguments to be entered as text values (in single quotes). If the fieldis numeric, then manually remove the quote marks.

8. When the expression is complete, click OK.


5.6 Adding Criteria

5.6.1 Hard Coded Criteria

Field selection criteria may be hard coded. These hard coded values may not be altered at query run time (i.e.in Excel). Hard coded criteria may be entered directly on the Field List panel or via the Builder panel. Exampleof hard coded criteria would be "Open Amount <> 0" or "Status = Active".

To Enter Hard Coded Criteria via the Field List Panel:1. On the Field List panel, click within one of the seven Criteria fields for the desired field and manually key

the selection criteria (<>) in this example).

To Enter Hard Coded Criteria via the Builder Panel:1. On the Field List panel, click the ellipse button -or- double click within one of the seven Criteria fields for the

desired field. The Builder panel appears.

2. On the Builder panel, selection criteria may be keyed directly in the work area or by using the appropriateoperation or functional buttons to develop the expression.

3. Click OK to save the criteria expression.



5.6.2 Creating and Using Parameters

5.6.2.1 Parameters in Query Designer vs Excel

Parameters are added to a query as a place-holder for when selection criteria is to be specified in Excel. Adefault parameter value may be defined in the query for testing purposes, and then the actual criteria isspecified in Excel at the time the formula is executed.

Query DesignerWhen a query is created or modified, it is normal to execute the query in Query Designer to test the results.When testing a query parameter values are specified in the Parameters panel. Refer to Parameters Panel formore information.

ExcelExecutive Dash queries are executed from Excel via formulas (EXQ, EXD, EXS, EXI). Each of these formulashave arguments where parameter values may be specified. These values may be hard-coded in the formuladefinition; however, it is recommended to use cell references.


5.6.2.2 Standard Parameters in the Query Designer

Standard Parameters allow the user full control over how the system interprets a parameter. When usingstandard parameters the query writer must know various SQL rules for working with text fields, numericvalues, lists and ranges of values.

Note: Standard Parameters differ from Smart Parms. Smart Parms simplify query writing by using standardrules for processing parameters. Refer to Smart Parms Criteria Entry Rules andSmart Parms in the Query Designer for more information.

To Create a Parameter:1. On the Parameters panel, click the Add button. The Add a Parameter panel appears.

2. On the Add a Parameter panel, enter a description and default test value for the parameter.

3. Click the Save button, and then OK to confirm.

To Insert a Parameter into a Criteria Field:1. On the Field List panel, click the ellipse button -or- double click within one of the seven Criteria fields for

the desired field. The Builder panel appears.

2. On the Builder panel in the Source section, click the plus sign (+) to the left of Parameters. The systemexpands the list of available parameters.



3. From the expanded parameter list, select the parameter to be used.

4. Double click <value as (number or string)>. The parameter, &PARM01, appears in the work area on theBuilder panel.

5. Enter any comparison operators and other characters as necessary to complete the criteria expression(i.e. =&PARM01).

6. Click OK. The Field List panel appears with the parameter inserted in the selected criteria field.


5.6.2.3 Smart Parms Criteria Entry Rules

When using standard parameters the query writer must know various SQL rules for working with text fields,numeric values, lists and ranges of values. Smart Parms simplify query writing by using standard rules forprocessing parameters. The rules used by Smart Parms are similar to those used in Global's SpreadsheetServer products for specifying segment values.

Below is a comparison by example of SQL (iSeries DB2) rules for specifying criteria values used by standardparameters versus Smart Parms.

Criteria Type Standard Parameters Smart Parms

Single Value - Text ='ABC' ABC

Single Value - Numeric =123 123

Single Value - Date =DATE('01/01/2007') 1/1/2007

Range - Text BETWEEN 'ABC' AND 'DEF' ABC.DEF

Range - Numeric BETWEEN 123 AND 456 123.456

Range - Date BETWEEN DATE('01/01/2007')AND DATE('03/31/2007')

1/1/2007.3/31/2007

List - Text IN('A','B','C') [A,B,C]

List - Numeric IN(1,2,3) [1,2,3]

List with Exclude N/A [AAA.CCC,/BBB]

Wildcard LIKE 'A%' A*

Wildcard for All Values LIKE '%' * or a blank

Wildcard for a Single Value LIKE '_500' *500

Greater Than or Equal To >=1000 1000.99999999

Less Than or Equal To <=1000 -99999999.1000

Logical NOT (using alphabet asdataset)

NOT IN('A','B','C') [D.Z]

Segment List N/A ^Country

With Smart Parms no comparison operators are used (=,<>,<,>,BETWEEN, LIKE, NOT).

The Smart Parm routine actually converts the expression to one that uses SQL rules.



5.6.2.4 Smart Parms in the Query Designer

Smart Parms may be added to a field directly on the Field List panel or via the Builder panel.

Note: Prior to adding a Smart Parm to a field an alias name must be assigned to the field. Refer toAssigning Aliases to Fields for more information.

To Add Smart Parms via the Field List Panel:1. On the Field List panel, right click on the desired field. The Field List popup menu appears.

2. On the Field List popup menu, select Add Smart Parm for This Field. A parameter for the field is added tothe Parameter panel with a blank value, and the Smart Parm (&SPARM01) is inserted into the Criteria 1field.

To Add Smart Parms via the Builder Panel:Note: This method must be used to add Smart Parms in other Criteria fields besides Criteria 1.

1. If the parameter doesn't already exist, create it. Refer to Standard Parameters in the Query Designer formore information.

2. On the Field List panel, click the ellipse button -or- double click within one of the seven Criteria fields forthe desired field. The Builder panel appears.

3. On the Builder panel in the Source section, click the plus sign (+) to the left of Parameters. The systemexpands the list of available parameters.

4. From the expanded parameter list, select the parameter to be used.

5. Double click <value as smart parm>. The Smart Parm appears in the work area on the Builder panel. Noother supporting characters (i.e. =, <, >) are required.


6. Click OK. The Field List panel appears with the Smart Parm inserted in the selected criteria field.

To Delete Smart Parms:Note: If multiple Smart Parms exist for a query, only the last (highest number) Smart Parm in the list may be

deleted. Example: Have Smart Parms 1, 2 and 3. Smart Parm 3 may be deleted; however, Smart Parm2 may not be deleted unless Smart Parm 3 is first deleted.

1. In the Parameters panel, select the highest number Smart Parm and click Del. The system displays aconfirmation panel. Click OK. The system removes the Smart Parm from the Parameters panel.

2. On the Field List panel, click the associated Smart Parm criteria field value. The Builder panel appears.Delete the Smart Parm field value. Click OK. The system removes the criteria field value from the FieldList.

3. Repeat the steps above to delete additional Smart Parms.



5.6.2.5 Parameters in Excel

Parameters are used in Excel in conjunction with Executive Dash formulas and provide criteria for the querybeing executed.

PrerequisiteBefore using parameters in Excel, the query must be created and saved in the Query Designer. In addition, ifusing the Query Catalog, the query must also be save to the catalog.

To Use Parameters in Excel:1. Prior to using a new or modified query, in Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Refresh Queries. The

system refreshes query data.


2. Layout the Excel report and assign cell references for each parameter.

3. Position the cell pointer to where the Executive Dash formula is to go.

4. Open the Formula Assistant, assign values to the arguments, including the cell positions of the parameters.

5. Click the Paste to Excel button to save the formula into the cell.


6. To change the query criteria value, enter the new value in the cell designated and re-run the query.



5.7 Create a Group By Query

When a query is created, by default it is a detail query -- one in which each record is displayed in the output.The query may be modified to become a Group By query, such that only summarized records are displayed.

To Create a Group By Query:1. On the Field List panel, right click on a field and select Totals on the Field List popup menu. The Group By

column appears in on the Field List panel displaying the value "Group By" for each field except calculatedfields (which have no default).

2. For each field in the list, assign the proper Group By value based upon the planned output for the query.The valid values for Group By are as follows:

Group By Value Description

Group By Displays each distinct value once per break point.

Sum Sums the field for each record at the break point.

Avg Averages the field at each break point.

Min Displays the minimum value for the field at each break point.

Max Displays the maximum value for the field at each break point.

Count Counts the records for the field at each break point.

StDev Displays the standard deviation for the field at each break point.

Var Displays the variance for the field at each break point.

First Displays the first value for the field.

Last Displays the last value for the field.

Expression Does not assign a Group By value, but is used for calculated fields where the GroupBy value has already been assigned in the definition of the field.

Where For "Visible" fields, use when criteria will be applied to the grouped field. This isexpressed in the SQL code as a HAVING statement.For fields that are not "Visible", use when criteria will be applied at a detail recordlevel. This is expressed in the SQL code as a WHERE statement.


Contrast of Detail Output to Grouped Output:

Example 1 - Detail Output (each output record visible):

Example 2 - Grouped Output (one output record per vendor):



5.8 Create the EXQ Field

An EXQ (Summary) field allows the system to summarize (i.e. total, count, average) a selected numeric field.In Excel an EXQ formula is then used to return a single value from the EXQ (Summary) portion of a query into aspreadsheet. A user may then drill down upon the summary value to see detailed results in theResultsContainer panel. Refer to Creating and Using EXQ Formulas for more information.

To Designate a Field as an EXQ Summary Field:1. On the Field List panel, right click on the desired field. The Field List popup menu appears.

2. On the Field List popup menu, select EXQ (Summary) Field. The Summary Type panel appears.

3. On the Summary Type panel, select the desired summary type.

Note: If a field is an expression that already contains a summary type (e.g. SUM(RPAAP)), then select theSummary Type as Embedded to avoid syntax like Sum(Sum(....)).

4. Click the Save button. The resulting field will be designated with a symbol in the Field List panel.

5. Defining a field as the EXQ Summary field also creates SQL code that is executed when the EXQ is runfrom Excel. This code is displayed on the SQL Text panel on the EXQ tab.



5.9 SQL SHELL Function

The SHELL function creates a dynamic cross application functionality with Executive Dash. Using the textSHELL within the SQL Text panel followed by an external program or file name, adds versatility to the SQLstatement by launching the external program and/or opening the file or image providing access to additionaldata. This function allows the user to process anything which could be processed in the RUN command inWindows. The SHELL statement may be used as part of a query detail drill down or an ad hoc query.

Example - SHELL Statement Used to Access a Vendor Voucher in a Word Document:In this example, the query has two parameters, Vendor # and Voucher #, and the Amount Gross field is an EXQsummary field.

1. In the SQL Text panel, change to manual entry mode (see SQL Text Panel):· De-select the Auto Generate check box.· Click No to not copy the auto-generated SQL text.

2. Within the SQL Text panel, key the text SHELL, press Enter, and key the additional text required to run thecommand or launch the external program. In this example C:\PO\&PARM02.docx has been keyed,indicating:· C:\PO\ -- The network directory location of the target file.· &PARM02 -- The Voucher Parameter defined within Query Designer and used in Excel cell reference.· .docx -- The file extension of the target file.

3. From the Ribbon, select Home>Save Query.

4. In Excel, add the EXQ formula. Use cell references for the parameters. Refer toCreating and Using EXQ Formulas for more information.

5. To execute the SHELL statement, select the cell containing the EXQ formula and right click. A popup menuappears. On the popup menu, select Query Detail. The SHELL statement is executed (opens theMicrosoft® Word document C:\PO\12324.docx in this example).


5.10 Viewing Results and Exporting Data

5.10.1 Test-Execution of Query

Once all fields have been selected and added to the Field List panel, it is suggested to run a quick test to verifythe query setup.

To Test a Query:1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select Home>Single Record -or- Home>1,000 Records. The

ResultsContainer panel appears displaying query results for either a single record or the first 1,000 recordsin the file based upon the option selected.

Note: The ResultsContainer panel is also displayed when a drill down is performed on an EXQ or EXIformula within Excel (see Executive Dash Formulas in Excel).



5.10.2 ResultsContainer Features

The ResultsContainer panel offers the following features to customize the view of the results output:

Feature Description

Re-sortColumns

To re-sort a column in ascending order, click the column heading. To re-sort a columnin descending order, click the column heading a second time.

Resize/HideColumns

To resize or hide a column, position the mouse at the edge of a column header until thecursor changes to a double arrow, then drag right or left to resize or hide the column.

Move Columns To move a column, click and hold on the desired column header, then drag and dropthe column right or left to the desired position.

DynamicColumnGroupings

To selectively summarize the amount columns by any column and to group the recordsby any column, drag the column heading into the summary section of the panel(indicated by the label "Drag a column header here to group by that column"). Multiplelevels of summarization can be created.

To display the detail records associated with a grouping, click the '+' next to the desiredgrouping level. Click the '-' to collapse the view and only display the grouping level.

Filter Each column within any of the grids can be filtered by entering values into theappropriate column filter. Alphanumeric fields filter character by character. Numericfields filter upon entry of the full field value.


Feature Description

CustomizeGrid Layout

Use the Grid Action panel to control the view of the results output, save and maintaincustom grid layouts, and to specify export, grouping and subtotaling options. Click theCollapse/Expand button in the top left corner of the grid to hide/unhide the Grid Actionpanel.

Grid Views:

Autofit GridColumns

To automatically resize columns widths in a grid to the maximum length required for theheader and/or data, click the Autofit Grid Columns button.

Sum Footers To place (or remove) sum totals at the bottom of each numeric column, click the SumFooters (Remove Footers) button.

Grid Layouts: By default the basic ("native") grid layout is displayed. Alternate layouts may becreated and applied at a later time, or made to be the new default. SeeCustom Grid Layouts for additional details.

List Box Displays the name of the layout currently being used -or- blank if the native layout isbeing used. Click the down arrow and select a layout to be applied to the grid.

SaveCurrentLayout

To save the current grid layout as a new layout, click the Save Current Layout button.A prompt panel appears. Specify the new layout name and click OK. A second promptpanel appears. Specify whether or not to set the new layout as the default layout for thequery.

RemoveLayout FromList

To remove a layout, click the down arrow and select the layout to be removed, thenclick the Remove Layout From List button.

Use Default To apply the default layout to the grid, click the Use Default button.

Use Native To apply the native layout to the grid, click the Use Native button.



Feature Description

Even Rows To change the color for even numbered rows, click the down arrow and select the color.

Odd Rows To change the color for odd numbered rows, click the down arrow and select the color.

RTL To toggle the justification for each field from left-to-right or right-to-left, click the RTLbutton.

Grid Data:

Select All To select all rows within the grid, click the Select All button.

Unselect All To de-select all rows within the grid, click the Select All button.

ExportUnderlyingData toExcel

To export the query results data to Excel, select the desired rows in the grid and thenclick the Export Underlying Data to Excel button. See Copy/Export Records for moreinformation.Note: Excel must be open/running to process this function.

Groups andSubtotals:

To apply subtotals to grouped data, select the check box next to the desired columnheader description(s). To remove a subtotal, clear the check box for the desiredcolumn.Note: Only numerical fields are allowed for subtotaling.

Expand All To expand all grouped data in the grid (thus showing all detail records within all groups),click the Expand All button.

Collapse All To collapse all grouped data in the grid (thus showing only group levels), click theCollapse All button.


5.10.2.1 Custom Grid Layouts

ResultsContainer grid layouts for each Executive Dash query may be customized to a specific user'spreference. Similar to columns in an Excel worksheet, columns in the grid may be hidden, resized, and movedto different positions, etc. A user may create as many customized grid layouts as desired for future results. Inaddition, a user may assign a customized layout as the default layout for that specific query; however, otherusers are not affected.

By default a basic ("native") layout is displayed in the ResultsContainer. An alternate layout may be createdand applied at a later time, or made to be the new default.

To Save Current Layout:A grid layout may be modified and then saved for future use.1. After grid columns have been set to user preferences, click Save Current Layout. The GSI_EXQL panel

appears.2. On the GSI_EXQL panel, key the new grid layout name.3. Click OK. The Set Default panel appears.4. Click Yes or No to indicate whether or not to set this layout as the default layout for the query. The Layout

Saved panel appears indicating the location of the saved layout file.5. Click OK.

To Save Changes to Current Layout:An existing customized grid layout may be modified and then saved for future use.1. Click on the drop down arrow and select an existing grid layout.2. After grid columns have been set to user preferences, click Save Current Layout. The Overwrite or Create

New panel appears.3. Click Yes. The Set Default panel appears.4. Click Yes or No to indicate whether or not to set this layout as the default layout for the query. The Layout


To Save Current Layout As:An existing grid layout may be modified and then saved as a different layout.1. Click on the drop down arrow and select an existing grid layout.2. After grid columns have been set to user preferences, click Save Current Layout. The Overwrite or Create

New panel appears.3. Click No. The GSI_EXQL panel appears.4. On the GSI_EXQL panel, key the new grid layout name.5. Click OK. The Set Default panel appears.6. Click Yes or No to indicate whether or not to set this layout as the default layout for the query. The Layout


To Remove Layout from List:A grid layout may be removed from the user's list of available layouts.1. From the drop down list of layouts, select the grid layout to be removed.2. Click Remove Layout from List. The Layout Removed panel appears.3. Click OK. If the deleted layout was the default layout, the Default Layout Removed panel appears.4. Click OK. The native layout is set as the new default.

To Restore Default Layout:To apply the default layout to the grid, click the Use Default button.

To Restore Installed Native Layout:To apply the native layout to the grid, click the Use Native button.



5.10.2.2 Copy/Export Records

If necessary query results data on the ResultsContainer panel may be copied or exported.

1. From the ResultsContainer grid, select the desired record(s):· To copy/export a single record -- select the desired record.· To copy/export select multiple records -- press and hold the Ctrl key as records are selected on the grid

rows.· To copy/export multiple records in a range -- select the first record in the range, press and hold the Shift

key, and select the last record in the range.· To copy/export all records -- from the Grid Action panel select Select All -or- while in the grid right click

and from the popup panel select Select All.

2. Process one of the following:· From ResultsContainer grid, right click. The following popup menu appears. Continue with Step 3.· From the Grid Action panel, select Export Underlying Data to Excel. The Copy into Excel panel appears.

Continue with Step 4.

3. On the popup menu, select the appropriate copy/export function.· Copy to Clipboard - places data on Windows clipboard.· Copy to Clipboard w/Headings - places data including headings on Windows clipboard.· Export to CSV, PDF, RTF, or Excel (Full Format) - brings up Windows Explorer panel.

4. On the Copy into Excel panel, specify the following processing criteria:· Specify the starting cell and the target worksheet (new or existing) in which to place the data.· Include Headings - indicate whether or not to include column headings in the copy.

5. Click Export Selected Cells to Excel to copy the data into the worksheet.


5.11 Query Management

Once a query has been created, various functions are available to maintain, clone, delete or lock/unlock aquery.

To Modify a Query Description:1. From the list of EDQ files, right-click on the desired query. A popup menu appears.2. On the popup menu, select Change Description. The Description panel appears.

Nav Tip:Steps 1 and 2 may be replaced by selecting the query in the list and selecting Change Descriptionfrom the Catalog tab on the Ribbon (see Ribbon Menu).

3. On the Description panel, key the desired description.4. Click OK.

To Clone a Query:1. From the list of EDQ files, right-click on the desired query to be cloned. A popup menu appears.2. On the popup menu, select Clone Query. The Clone Query panel appears.

Nav Tip:Steps 1 and 2 may be replaced by selecting the query in the list and selecting Clone/Clone Queryfrom the File System or Catalog tab on the Ribbon (see Ribbon Menu).

3. On the Clone Query panel, enter a query name for the clone.4. Click OK. The new query appears in the list of available queries.

To Delete a Query:1. From the list of EDQ files, right-click on the desired query to be deleted. A popup menu appears.2. On the popup menu, select Remove Query. The Delete File panel appears.

Nav Tip:Steps 1 and 2 may be replaced by selecting the query in the list and selecting Delete/RemoveQuery from the File System or Catalog tab on the Ribbon (see Ribbon Menu).

3. Click Yes. The query is removed from the list of available queries.

To Lock a Query:1. Open the desired query.2. From the Ribbon select Home>Un-Locked. The Lock Query panel appears.3. Click Yes. The Password Protection panel appears.4. On the Password Protection panel, enter the password to be used to protect the query.5. Click OK. A confirmation panel appears, confirming that the query is locked.

To Unlock a Query:1. Open the desired query.2. From the Ribbon select Home>Locked. The Unlock panel appears.3. Click Yes. The Password Protection panel appears.4. On the Password Protection panel, enter the password previously assigned to lock the query.5. Click OK. A confirmation panel appears, confirming that the lock has been removed for the query.



5.11.1 Download or Publish Query Exchange Queries

Query Exchange is an online depository of queries. Executive Dash allows the user to access the online querydepository, download selected queries to the Query Designer and then utilize them in Excel. In addition, anExecutive Dash user with an Professional license may publish an existing query to Query Exchange.

Note: If the product was manually registered then the user will not have access to the Query Exchangecomponent.

To Download a Query from Query Exchange:1. From within Query Designer:

· In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select Home>Search Online. Query Exchange opens.

From within Excel:· In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears. On

the panel, select the appropriate formula tab.Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed by selecting the EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (see

EDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).

· Click the Search Online button ( ). Query Exchange opens.

2. Continue with step 2 in the Download Queries from Query Exchange section.

To Publish a Query to Query Exchange:1. In Query Designer, open the desired query to be published.

2. From the Ribbon, select Home>Publish. The query is published to Query Exchange. Global reviews allpublished queries prior to promoting them to Query Exchange.

Note: If a description does not exist for the selected query, a prompt panel appears requiring the user to entera query description.


5.11.2 Textual Query Definition

Use the Textual Query Definition function is as a convenient way to document queries.

1. Open the query.

2. From the Ribbon, select Home>Definition. Windows Notepad opens displaying the query definition.

Sample Textual Query Definition:

Query Name: AP Open InvoicesQuery File Name: P:\E-Dash\GSI Queries\AP Open Invoices.edq

Tables/Files in query:Table: F0411 (ACCOUNTS PAYABLE LEDGER)Table: F0101 (ADDRESS BOOK MASTER)

Relationships:Inner Join F0411. RPAN8 = F0101. ABAN8

Selected Fields:

F0411 . RPAN8 Alias: "Vendor #" Sort= Ascending Visible=TrueF0101 . ABALPH Alias: "Vendor Name" Sort= (none) Visible=TrueF0411 . RPDOC Alias: "Voucher #" Sort= (none) Visible=TrueF0411 . RPAG Alias: "AmountGross" Sort= (none) Visible=TrueF0411 . RPAAP Alias: "AmountOpen" Sort= (none) Visible=True

Calculated Field: "AmountRemaining"&lib.F0411.RPAG/100 - &lib.F0411.RPAAP/100 Alias: "AmountRemaining" Sort=none) Visible=True

Calculated Field: "Invoice Date"CASEWHEN &lib.F0411.RPDIVJ = 0THEN DATE('01/01/1900')ELSE DATE(DIGITS( DECIMAL( &lib.F0411.RPDIVJ + 1900000,7,0)) )

END Alias: "Invoice Date" Sort= (none) Visible=True

F0411 . RPDIVJ Alias: "Invoice Date Julian" Sort= (none) Visible=False

Parameters Description ValuePARM01 Vendor # 459

Criteria:F0411 . RPAN8 &SPARM01F0411 . RPAAP <>0F0411 . RPDIVJ <>0

Summarize (EXQ): RPAAP

Detail SQL (AUTO):SELECT &lib.F0411.RPAN8 AS "Vendor #", &lib.F0101.ABALPH AS "Vendor Name",&lib.F0411.RPDOC AS "Voucher #", &lib.F0411.RPAG/100 AS "AmountGross",



&lib.F0411.RPAAP/100 AS "AmountOpen", &lib.F0411.RPAG/100 -&lib.F0411.RPAAP/100 AS "AmountRemaining", CASEWHEN &lib.F0411.RPDIVJ = 0THEN DATE('01/01/1900')ELSE DATE(DIGITS( DECIMAL( &lib.F0411.RPDIVJ + 1900000,7,0)) )

END AS "Invoice Date"FROM ((&lib.F0411 INNER JOIN &lib.F0101 ON (&lib.F0411.RPAN8=&lib.F0101.ABAN8)))WHERE (((&lib.F0411.RPAN8) &SPARM01 ) AND ((&lib.F0411.RPAAP/100)<>0) AND((&lib.F0411.RPDIVJ)<>0) )ORDER BY "Vendor #"EXQ SQL (AUTO):SELECT SUM(&lib.F0411.RPAAP/100) as EXQFROM ((&lib.F0411 INNER JOIN &lib.F0101 ON (&lib.F0411.RPAN8=&lib.F0101.ABAN8)))WHERE (((&lib.F0411.RPAN8) &SPARM01 ) AND ((&lib.F0411.RPAAP/100)<>0) AND((&lib.F0411.RPDIVJ)<>0) )


5.12 Ad Hoc Queries

Ad hoc queries allow the user to drill down from the "results" view of a summary query to the detail data. This adhoc drill down functionality is available from the ResultsContainer panel within Query Designer or Excel.

1. In Query Designer, create a query for summarizing the data and a query for retrieving the detail data.

2. Close all queries.

3. From the Ribbon, select View>Ad Hoc Queries. The Ad Hoc Queries Development panel appears.

4. Click the New button to create a new ad hoc query.

5. Use the table to enter data on the Ad Hoc Queries Development panel.

Fields Description

Available Ad Hoc Definitions Displays a list of existing ad hoc queries.

Ad Hoc Name Specify the name of the ad hoc query.

Query to Run When Selected Click the down arrow and select the detail query to be executed whenthe ad hoc drill down function is selected.

Select Queries this Ad HocShould be Available From

Select the source queries for which this ad hoc query will be available.

Execute If: If applicable, specify additional criteria to determine when to executethe ad hoc query.

Column # Identify the column number in the results table containing the value tobe used for comparison purposes.

Value(s) Identify the value(s) that must be in the specified column in order forthe ad hoc query to be executed.

Parameters Specify the appropriate parameters for the detail query. Key theappropriate value or click the down arrow and select the desired value.



6. Click the Save button to write changes.

7. To edit an ad hoc query, select the desired query from the Available Ad Hoc Definitions list, make thenecessary changes, and then click the Save button to write changes.

8. To delete an ad hoc query, select the desired query from the Available Ad Hoc Definitions list and click theDel button.


5.12.1 Sample Ad Hoc Query

The following example demonstrates how to create and utilize an ad hoc query.

1. In Query Designer create a summary query. For this example the summary query, AP Open InvoicesSummary.edq, lists the total open invoices per vendor.

2. In Query Designer create a detail query. For this example the detail query, AP Open Invoices Detail.edq,lists by vendor all the open invoices. A smart parm has been added for the vendor number field.



3. In Query Designer create the ad hoc query. In this example, the Query to Run is the detail query, AP OpenInvoices Detail.edq, and the Select Query This Ad Hoc Should Be Available From is the summary query, APOpen Invoices Summary.edq. In addition, vendor number is identified as the parameter.

4. In Query Designer or in Excel, execute the summary query, AP Open Invoices Summary.edq. TheResultsContainer panel appears listing the total amount of open invoices for each vendor.


5. On the ResultsContainer panel, select a row, right click and select Ad Hoc Drill Down from the popup menu -or- double click the desired row. A second tab appears on the Results Container panel, listing the openinvoices for the selected vendor.

Nav Tip:If multiple ad hoc queries are available for the summary query, then a list appears allowing theuser to select the appropriate ad hoc query.



5.13 Designing Reports

The Executive Dash application includes a powerful report designer. This designer is available to createprofessional looking reports containing the current dynamic data furnished by a query, that may be printed, e-mailed, or viewed. Prior to using Report Designer, a query must be created and saved in the Query Designer.

1. In Query Designer, open the desired query for which to create a new report or modify an existing report.

2. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select View>Report Designer. The Report Designer opens. By defaultthe designer starts with a page header, a detail band, and a page footer.

3. Use the table to locate the various panels within the Report Designer.

Panel Description

Standard Controls Lists the various elements used in building and formatting reports.

Designer In Designer mode, this panel is where the report is constructed andelements are placed to meet the user's desired report format. InPreview or HTML View modes, this panel displays a preview of whatthe formatted report will look like. Click the tab on the bottom of thepanel to select the desired mode.

The Designer panel is initially divided into three bands/sections:· Component_1 - page header (data prints on each page of the report).· Component_0 - body/detail section of the report.· Component_2 - page footer (data prints on each page of the report).

Group and Sort Identifies the report grouping and sorting criteria.

Report Explorer Identifies all the elements currently included in the Detail Section.

Field List Lists available data fields based on the tables in the underlying query.

Property Grid Identifies properties for the element currently highlighted in the ReportExplorer section.


5.13.1 Selecting Fields/Adding Labels

When designing a report, start by selecting the various fields from the query to appear on the report andassigning labels to the fields. Labels may also be added to the report for other purposes (i.e. report title).

To Select Existing Fields from the Query:1. In Report Designer, click the Field List tab. The Field List panel appears listing the tables in the query.

2. Click the '+' next to the desired table. The lists expands displaying the fields in the query for the selectedtable.

3. From the Field List panel, click and hold the desired data element, then drag and drop the element to themiddle section (component_0) of the Designer panel.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 as necessary to add additional fields to the report format.

5. Save the report.

To Add Labels to the Report:1. In Report Designer from the Standard Control panel, double click the Label element. A new element

labeled Labeln (where n = sequence number) is added in the Designer panel.

2. Click and hold the label element, then drag and drop to the desired location on the Designer panel.

3. Double click the label element and type in the appropriate text.

4. Repeat Steps 1 - 3 as necessary to add additional labels to the report format.

5. Save the report.



5.13.2 Formatting

When designing a report the format of a field or element may be modified if necessary. Formatting controlvarious parameters such as, but not limited to, format string (i.e. general, date, currency, number), font, totalcalculations (see Adding Totals), text alignment, visibility, and word wrap.

1. In Report Designer within the Designer panel, select the desired element to be formatted. Focus is givento the element.

2. Two methods are available for accessing element format properties:Method One:· In the Property Grid panel, various format options are available. Modify the settings as necessary.

Method Two:

· Click the right arrow ( ) located at the top right corner of the element. The appropriate Tasks panelappears listing various format options. Modify the settings as necessary.

3. After formatting changes are made, save the report.


5.13.3 Grouping

The grouping feature of the Report Designer turns a lengthy report into a logical layout by grouping togetherrecords in the query based upon selected fields. Grouping may be done on one or multiple fields. All theelements of the Group Header may be specified to print at the beginning of each group, whereas all elementsof the Group Footer may be specified to print at the end of group.

1. In Report Designer within the Group and Sort section of the Designer panel, click Add a Group. Anexpanded list appears displaying the tables and fields in the query.

2. From the expanded list, select the field to be used for grouping. The selected field is returned to the Groupand Sort list, and a Group Header band is added to the report.

3. Repeat Step 2 as necessary to add additional fields to be used for grouping.

4. To modify the sort order for a selected grouping field, click the field's Sort Order box then click the dropdown list and select the desired value.

5. Based upon report requirements, additional elements may be added to the Group Header band section(see Selecting Fields/Adding Labels).

6. After all changes are made, save the report.

Note: In the example below the field Vendor Number was selected for grouping. Then the Vendor Numberand Vendor Name field elements previously in the Component_0 (detail section) were moved(dragged and dropped) to the Group Header band section.


5.13.4 Adding Totals

To expand the power of a grouped report, subtotals for a group may be added via a Group Footer.

1. In Report Designer within the Group and Sort section of the Designer panel, select to Show Footer. AGroup Footer band is added to the report.

2. In this example, three labels are being added to the Group Footer section. One label is for a subtotalheader, and two labels are for subtotaling amount fields.· In Report Designer from the Standard Control panel, double click the Label element. A new element

labeled Labeln (where n = sequence number) is added in the Designer panel.· Click and hold the label element, then drag and drop to the desired location on the Designer panel.· Double click the label element and type in the appropriate text.

3. The elements labeled Inv Amt and OS Amt require changes to their properties to establish the desired

totaling. To modify element properties, click the field to be modified and then click the right arrow ( ) atthe top right corner of the element. The Label Tasks panel appears listing various properties for theelement.

4. Click the Summary ellipse button. The Summary Editor panel appears.



5. Use the table to enter data on the Summary Editor panel.

Field Description

Bound Field Indicates the field to which the summary function applies. Click thedown arrow and select the appropriate field.Note: In this example when modifying the element Inv Amt, theassociated bound field is Amount Gross, and the associated bound fieldfor the element OS Amt is Amount Open.

Summary Function Indicates the type of function/calculation to be applied to the boundfield (i.e. average, count, sum). Click the down arrow and select theappropriate function.Note: In this example Sum is being used.

Format String Indicates the type of formatting to be applied to the calculated value.Click the down arrow and select the appropriate format.Note: In this example a currency format is being used.

Ignore NULL Values Select the check box to indicate for the system to ignore null valueswhen processing the selected function.

Summary Running Select the appropriate radio button to indicate which level for to run thesummary calculation.Note: In this example Group is being used.

6. Click OK. The selected summary function precedes the element description text.

Nav Tip:Steps 3 - 6 may be replaced by expanding the Summary option in the Property Grid panel andthen updating the various Summary related properties.


7. After all changes are made, save the report.



5.14 View Log Entries

During all processing, the system records various logging information. If the Settings option EnhancedLogging is selected, then the system records additional error message logging data. Log entries may beviewed, copied and/or emailed if desired.

1. In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select View>Settings. The Settings panel appears.

Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed in Excel by selecting Settings from the ExecDash menu -or- byselecting the EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (see EDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).

2. On the Settings panel, click the View Log button. The Log Viewer panel appears displaying the level,date, time and description for each log entry. In addition, in the bottom right hand corner the paneldisplays a count of the number of entries listed.

Nav Tip:When the Enhanced Logging option is selected on the Settings panel, then this panel may alsobe accessed in Excel by selecting the EDash ribbon equivalent (see EDash Ribbon).

Note: To select a different size font, click on the drop down arrow in the bottom right hand corner.

3. To copy selected log entries to the clipboard, on the Log Viewer panel first select the desired record(s)and then either click the Copy Selected Errors button -or- right click on the list and select Copy SelectedErrors on the popup panel:· To copy a single record -- select the desired record.· To copy select multiple records -- press and hold the Ctrl key as records are selected in the list.· To copy multiple records in a range -- select the first record in the range, press and hold the Shift key,

and select the last record in the range.


4. To email the entire log file to Global, click the Email Error Log button. The system opens a new Outlook®

email panel with the log file attached. Modify the email address and/or text of the email body asnecessary and click the Send button.

5. To filter the entries in the log file, select the desired message type(s), date/time range, containing text, classand/or method in the Filter section. The system displays only entries matching the selection criteria. Clickthe Clear Filter button to reset all filter fields to their default value.

6. To search for a specific value in the log file, key the desired value in the Find What field and click theFind Next button. The system will highlight the first log entry containing the value. Click the Find Nextbutton again, to find the next occurrence of the selected value.

7. To clear the log file, click the Clear Log button.

8. To display the full details of a log entry, double click the selected entry in the list. The Error Propertiespanel appears. Use the arrow buttons on the Error Properties panel to scroll up or down through the logentries in the list. To copy detail data for a single log entry to the clipboard, click the Copy button. Clickthe Close button to return to the Log Viewer panel.

9. To exit the Log Viewer panel, click the Close button.

Executive Dash Formulas in Excel 99


6 Executive Dash Formulas in Excel

6.1 Navigation in Excel

Executive Dash uses the following navigation methods for processing functions on an Excel spreadsheet. Eachfunction is not always available from each method.

· ExecDash Menu (see ExecDash Menu)· Executive Dash Toolbar (see EDash Toolbar)· Executive Dash Ribbon (see EDash Ribbon)

For Excel 2003:· The ExecDash menu is accessible from the Excel menu bar.· The Executive Dash toolbar is accessible in the standard toolbar section.· The Executive Dash ribbon is NOT applicable.

For Excel 2007 and Above:· The ExecDash menu and Executive Dash toolbar are accessible from the Add-Ins ribbon.· The Executive Dash ribbon is only available when Executive Dash is selected as an add-in to Excel.

NAVIGATION TIPS:Throughout the manual navigation tips, noted by the convention "NAV TIP", will be listed indicating the variouspaths available to access a function.


6.1.1 ExecDash Menu

After Executive Dash is installed and initiated as an add-in to Excel, the ExecDash menu is added to Excel. Themenu is used to access/process various functions within the application.

For Excel 2003:The ExecDash menu is accessible from the Excel menu bar.

For Excel 2007 and Above:The ExecDash menu is accessible from the Add-Ins ribbon.


Purchase Goes to Global's website, allowing the user to contact Global in regardsto purchasing an Executive Dash license.

Settings Opens the Settings panel, allowing the user to define various criteria tocontrol processing. Refer to User Settings for more information.

Manage Connections Opens the Connections panel, allowing the user to maintainconnections. Refer to Connections for more information.

Refresh Queries Refreshes query data from Query Designer. Query data should berefreshed prior to using a new or modified query in Excel.

Build a Template Opens the Build Template panel, allowing the user to quickly design thelayout of a worksheet. Refer to Build a Template for more information.

Formula Assistant Opens the Formula Assistant panel, allowing the user to maintainparameters for a formula. Refer to Formula Assistant for moreinformation.

Disconnect All OpenConnections

Disconnects all open connections.

Fix Broken Links Corrects all broken links to the .xla within the workbook.

Generate All Query Detail Lists Executes all EXD formulas in the workbook. Refer toCreating and Using EXD Formulas for more information.



6.1.2 EDash Toolbar

After Executive Dash is installed and initiated as an add-in to Excel, the Executive Dash (EDash) toolbar isadded to Excel. The EDash toolbar may be used as a convenient alternative to various ExecDash menufunctions.

For Excel 2003:The EDash toolbar is accessible in the standard toolbar section.

For Excel 2007 and Above:The EDash toolbar is accessible from the Add-Ins ribbon.


Refresh Queries Refreshes query data from Query Designer. Query data should berefreshed prior to using a new or modified query in Excel.


Generate All EXDs Executes all EXD formulas in the workbook. Refer toCreating and Using EXD Formulas for more information.

Query Detail Opens the ResultsContainer panel, displaying detail records underlyingthe selected EXD, EXQ, EXS or EXI formula.

Show Settings Opens the Settings panel, allowing the user to defined various criteriato control processing. Refer to User Settings for more information.


6.1.3 EDash Ribbon

After Executive Dash is installed and initiated as an add-in to Excel, a custom Executive Dash (EDash) ribbonis added to Excel for Excel 2007 (and above) users. The EDash ribbon may be used as a convenientalternative to various ExecDash menu functions.

For Excel 2003:The EDash ribbon is NOT applicable.

For Excel 2007 and Above:The ribbon only appears when Executive Dash is selected as an add-in to Excel.

Note: If the ribbon does not appear, go to Settings and click the Add Excel Ribbon button (see User Settings).


View the Error Log Opens the Log Viewer panel, where the user may view information anderror log entries, copy selected log entries, email or clear the log file.Refer to View Log Entries for more information.

Refresh Queries Refreshes query data from Query Designer. Select the option prior tousing a new or modified query in Excel.

Recalc Recalculates all formulas within the workbook. Click on the arrow toaccess additional functions (i.e. recalculate formulas for workbook,worksheet or selection, fix broken links, etc.).




Generate EXD(s) Executes all EXD formulas in the workbook. Click on the arrow toaccess additional functions. Refer toCreating and Using EXD Formulas for more information.

Drill Down Opens the ResultsContainer panel, displaying detail records underlyingthe selected EXD, EXQ, EXS or EXI formula.

Insert Table Opens the Create Table panel, allowing the user to create a table for aselected range of data.

Summarize with Pivot Table Opens the Pivot Table Tools ribbon, allowing the user to create a pivottable using the data in the selected table.


Build a Template Opens the Build Template panel, allowing the user to quickly design thelayout of a worksheet. Refer to Build a Template for more information.

Segment Lists Opens the Maintain Segment Lists panel, allowing the user to createand/or maintain segment lists. Refer to Create/Maintain Segment Listsfor more information.

Settings Opens the Settings panel, allowing the user to defined various criteriato control processing. Refer to User Settings for more information.

Manage Connections Opens the Connections panel, allowing the user to maintainconnections. Refer to Connections for more information.

Purchase Goes to Global's website, allowing the user to contact Global in regardsto purchasing an Executive Dash license.

View Registration Opens the Register Online panel, allowing for registering the user,releasing the license key or unregistering the user. Refer toRegistration for more information.


6.2 Download Queries from Query Exchange

Query Exchange is an online depository of queries. Executive Dash allows the user to access the onlinequery depository, download selected queries to the Query Designer and then utilize them in Excel. QueryExchange may be accessed from within either Query Designer or Excel. The ERP defaulted in the searchcriteria is defined in the user settings.

Note: If the product was manually registered then the user will not have access to the Query Exchangecomponent.

1. From within Excel:· In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears. On

the panel, select the appropriate formula tab.Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed by selecting the EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (see

EDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).

· Click the Search Online button ( ). Query Exchange opens.

From within Query Designer:· From the desktop, click Start>Global Software Executive Dash>Executive Dash. The Query Designer

panel appears.· In Query Designer from the Ribbon, select Home>Search Online. Query Exchange opens.

2. Select and/or key the appropriate search criteria and click the Search button -or- click Advanced Search,enter the appropriate search criteria and click the Advanced Search button. The system lists all queriesmatching the search criteria.



3. To download a query, click the Install Query icon ( ) next to the desired query. The Select a Connectionpanel appears listing the connections available based upon the selected query's platform.

Note: Queries available for downloading are based upon the user's license type.


4. Select the connection to use for the query, then click Done. The Save As panel appears.

Note: If the desired connection is not listed, click the New button to open the Connections panel and createa new connection (see Connections).

5. On the Save As panel, if necessary navigate to a different folder location and/or change the file name, thenclick the Save button. The Query Retrieved panel appears confirming that the query has been retrievedfrom the web and saved to Query Designer.

Note: After a query is downloaded from Query Exchange it becomes available from the File System.

6. On the Query Retrieved panel, click OK. Query Exchange reappears, allowing the user to select another



query for downloading.

7. Repeat steps 3 - 6 as necessary to download additional queries.

8. When all queries have been downloaded, click the X to close Query Exchange.· If Query Exchange was accessed from the Query Designer, then Query Designer reappears and opens the

last query downloaded.· If Query Exchange was accessed from the Formula Assistant panel within Excel, then the Formula

Assistant panel reappears and defaults the name of the last query downloaded in the Query Name field.Note: Refer to Creating and Using EXD Formulas, Creating and Using EXQ Formulas,

Creating and Using EXI Formulas, and Creating and Using EXS Formulas for the steps required tocomplete a formula.


6.3 Creating Formulas within Excel

Setup Prior to using Executive Dash Formulas in Excel

1. Executive Dash queries must exist in the Query Designer before they can be used in formulas in Excel.Use one of the following methods to create/add a query to the Query Designer:· Download a query from Query Exchange (see Download Queries from Query Exchange)· Manually create a query in Query Designer (see Starting a New Query)

2. Prior to using a new or modified query, in Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Refresh Queries. Thesystem refreshes query data.


Summary of Executive Dash Formulas for ExcelExecutive Dash retrieves data from the assigned database into Excel using the following formulas:

Formula Description

EXQ Returns a single value from the EXQ (Summary) portion of the query into the spreadsheet.This value may be "drilled-down" upon to see the detailed results in the ResultsContainerwindow. Refer to Creating and Using EXQ Formulas for more information.

EXD Directly inserts the Detail results of the query into the spreadsheet. Refer toCreating and Using EXD Formulas for more information.

EXS Opens a selector window with the values returned from the query. Refer toCreating and Using EXS Formulas for more information.

EXI Opens the Detail portion of the query and displays it in the ResultsContainer window. Referto Creating and Using EXI Formulas for more information.

These formulas can be used in a spreadsheet cell in the same manner as other spreadsheet functions.

Executive Dash provides tools for starting a spreadsheet (see Build a Template) and for entering formulas (seeFormula Assistant).



6.4 Build a Template

Build a Template is a tool used to aid in quickly creating a template within an Executive Dash spreadsheet.This tool populates the necessary rows and columns with required parameters as provided by the user. The toolinserts an EXQ, EXD, EXS, or EXI formula using the parameters.

1. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Build a Template. The Build Template panel appears.

Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed by selecting the EDash ribbon equivalent (see EDash Ribbon).

2. Select the tab of the desired formula. The selected formula panel appears.

3. Specify the query to be used in the formula.

· When the query resides in the File System, click the Open From File button ( ) to navigate to andselect the query to be executed.

· When the query resides in Query Exchange, click the Search Online button ( ) to navigate to and selectthe query to be executed (see Download Queries from Query Exchange).Note: After a query is installed from Query Exchange then it becomes available from the File System.


4. Use the table to enter data on the EXQ tab of the Build Template panel.

Field Description

EXQ: Returns a single value from the EXQ (Summary) portion of the queryinto the spreadsheet. Refer to Creating and Using EXQ Formulas formore information.

Total Field If the EXQ summary field is to be defined within the formula, use thedrop down list to select the field to be summarized.

Total Type If the EXQ summary field is to be defined within the formula, use thedrop down list to select summary type (i.e. SUM, COUNT, MIN, MAX).

5. Use the table to enter data on the EXD tab of the Build Template panel.

Field Description

EXD: Directly inserts the Detail results of the query into the spreadsheet.Refer to Creating and Using EXD Formulas for more information.

Worksheet From the drop down list select the worksheet destination for the output.Defaults the current active worksheet.

Starting Cell/Range/Table Specify the upper-left corner of the output target. This value may be asingle cell, a table or a range. If Include Column Headings is selected,then it represents the left-most column heading as defined in the query.Otherwise it represents the left-most cell of the first row of data.

Fill Down Columns Specify the number of columns that contain formulas/values to the rightof the results grid. These columns will fill down to match the number ofrecords in the results. Valid values are 1, 2, 3, etc.Note: When using Fill Down Columns targeting a range the fill downformulas/values must reside outside of the output range.Note: When Include Column Heading is selected, the fill down columnsare required to be on the first row following the headings. When IncludeColumn Headings is not selected, the fill down columns are required tobe on the first two rows for the EXD data.Note: In some instances, the EXD Row function may be used in placeof fill down columns. Refer to EXD Row Function for more information.

Include Column Headings Select the check box to indicate that generated output data will containcolumn headings from the query. Do not select the check box ifcolumn headings will be manually entered in Excel.

Auto Fit Column Sizes Select the check box to have the system perform the Autofill ColumnWidth feature of Excel when the formula is executed.



Field Description

Clear Sheet/Range/Table Select the check box to have the system clear the entire output sheet(specified in the Worksheet field) or range or table (specified in theStarting Cell/Range/Table field) to be cleared when the EXD formula isexecuted. Do not select this check box if the EXD formula or any of theparameters for the query are located on the output sheet.Note: See Clear a Range of Cells for clearing a range of cell data.

Clear a Range of Cells Specify the range of cells to be cleared prior to executing the EXDformula.Note: If Fill Down Columns are used, be sure to exclude the first rowfrom the clear range. If the first row is cleared then the formula/value tobe filled down will be deleted and blanks will be filled.Example: When a Fill Down Column is specified, if the Starting Cell isA7, the Clear Range of Cells should be "A8:xx".

6. Use the table to enter data on the EXS tab of the Build Template panel.

Field Description

EXS: Opens a selector window with the values returned from the query.Refer to Creating and Using EXS Formulas for more information.

Selector Text Specify the label for the EXS.

Cell for Value Specify the cell destination for the selected query value(s).

7. The EXI formula is used to open the Detail portion of the query and display it in the ResultsContainerwindow. No formula specific parameters are required for the EXI formula. Refer toCreating and Using EXI Formulas for more information.


8. Use the table to enter data in the Excel Properties section of the Build Template panel.

Field Description

Excel Properties:

Worksheet From the drop down list select the worksheet destination for theformula. Defaults the current active worksheet.

Starting Column/Row Identify the starting column and row for the formula template.

Use Absolute CellReferences

Select the check box to automatically lock both the column and rowvalues of the query's parameter cell references. If not selected, thesystem will only lock the column value when the parameter is assignedto a row and only lock the row value when the parameter is assigned toa column.

Line Description Enter a description to be assigned to the formula. This value is placedin the cell prior to the cell containing the formula.

Clear Worksheet Select the radio button to clear all cell data on the target worksheetwhen inserting data.

Do Not Clear Worksheet Select the radio button to not clear cell data on the target worksheetwhen inserting data.

Shift Worksheet Data Select the radio button to insert the formula in the target cell and toinsert the data for newly inserted columns and rows to the top and tothe left of the existing worksheet data.



Field Description

Parameters: The parameter related fields only appear when parameters have beenspecified in the selected query definition.

Display/Use Select the check box to include the query parameter in the formula.

Row/Col Select the button to toggle between Row and Col. This buttondetermines if the query parameter will be located on the row to the leftof the formula or in a column above the formula.

Value Enter the value to default on the template for the query parameter. Thevalue may be a single value, a wildcard, list, range, or segment list.

9. After the appropriate data has been entered and verified, click one of the following toolbar icons or buttons.· Insert (icon) -- inserts parameter labels and values and the formula to the selected worksheet, and keeps

the panel open for additional inserts.· Insert (button) -- inserts parameter labels and values and the formula to the selected worksheet and closes

the panel.· Close (button) -- closes the panel.


6.5 Formula Assistant

Formula Assistant is a tool used to aid in quickly creating formulas within an Executive Dash spreadsheet.Currently the Formula Assistant is applicable for EXQ, EXD, EXS, and EXI formulas.

1. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears, opento the EXQ tab -or- if Formula Assistant was launched while on the Executive Dash formula, the panelopens the corresponding formula tab.

Nav Tip:This panel may also be accessed by selecting the EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (seeEDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).

2. Select the tab of the desired formula. The selected formula panel appears.

3. Specify the query to be used in the formula.· When the query resides in a Query Catalog, use the drop down list to select the query to be executed.

· When the query resides in the File System, click the Open From File button ( ) to navigate to andselect the query to be executed.

· When the query resides in Query Exchange, click the Search Online button ( ) to navigate to and selectthe query to be executed (see Download Queries from Query Exchange).Note: After a query is installed from Query Exchange then it becomes available from the File System.

4. Use the table to enter data on the EXQ tab of the Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description

EXQ: Returns a single value from the EXQ (Summary) portion of the queryinto the spreadsheet. Refer to Creating and Using EXQ Formulas formore information.



Parameters If applicable, specify the cells containing parameters for the query.

Note: Values to be entered in the EXQ formula will vary based upon whether the EXQ summary field is



defined in the query or the formula.


5. Use the table to enter data on the EXD tab of the Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description

EXD: Directly inserts the Detail results of the query into the spreadsheet.Refer to Creating and Using EXD Formulas for more information.









Field Description



6. Use the table to enter data on the EXS tab of the Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description

EXS: Opens a selector window with the values returned from the query.Refer to Creating and Using EXS Formulas for more information.





7. Use the table to enter data on the EXI tab of the Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description

EXI: Opens the Detail portion of the query and displays it in theResultsContainer window. Refer to Creating and Using EXI Formulasfor more information.


8. After the appropriate data has been entered and verified, click one of the following buttons.· Copy to Clipboard -- copies the formula to the Windows clipboard.· Paste to Excel -- inserts the formula to the previously selected cell on the current worksheet and closes the

panel.



6.6 Creating and Using EXQ Formulas

The EXQ formula is used to return a single value from the EXQ (summary) portion of a query into aspreadsheet. A user may then drill down upon the summary value to see detailed results in theResultsContainer window.

Note: A SHELL Statement may be added to the query to launch an external program in replace of query detail aspart of the drill down. Refer to SQL SHELL Function for more information.

1. In Excel, place the cell pointer where the formula is to reside.

2. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears. On thepanel, select the appropriate formula tab (EXQ).


3. Use the table to enter data on the EXQ - Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description

Query Name When the query resides in a Query Catalog, use the drop down list toselect the query to be executed.When the query resides in the File System, click the Open From File

button ( ) to navigate to and select the query to be executed.When the query resides in Query Exchange, click the Search Online

button ( ) to navigate to and select the query to be executed (seeDownload Queries from Query Exchange).Note: After a query is installed from Query Exchange then it becomesavailable from the File System.





Note: Values to be entered in the EXQ formula will vary based upon whether the EXQ summary field isdefined in the query or the formula.



Example 1 - EXQ Summary Field Defined in the Query:For more information on creating the EXQ summary field in the Query Designer refer toCreate the EXQ Field.

Example 2 - EXQ Summary Field Defined in the Formula Assistant:


4. Click the Paste to Excel button to insert the formula into the cell. The summary portion of the query in theEXQ formula is immediately executed. The true formula (EXQ(...)) can be seen in the Excel formula bar.

5. Copy the EXQ formula to the appropriate destination cells.

Note: If the EXQ formula is used in conjunction with data generated via an EXD formula and is in an adjacentcolumn, use the EXD Fill Down Column feature to copy the EXQ formula to the same number of rowsgenerated by the EXD formula. Refer to Creating and Using EXD formulas for more information.

6. To view detail records underlying an EXQ summary value, select the cell containing the EXQ formula andright click. A popup menu appears. On the popup menu, select Query Detail. The ResultsContainerwindow appears displaying the detail records for the EXQ summary value.

Nav Tip:This function may also be processed by selecting the cell containing the EXQ formula and selectingthe EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (see EDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).


6.7 Creating and Using EXD Formulas

The EXD formula is used to directly insert the detail results of a query into a spreadsheet.

Note: If the query output is to be limited to a specific number of records, then the EXD Number of Records toReturn field in the Query Designer must be specified to limit the records output in Excel. This value issaved in the query definition (.EDQ file).

· Value of "0" indicates no limit to EXD records returned in Excel.· Positive integer indicates the number of records to be returned by the EXD formula in Excel.


2. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears. On thepanel, select the appropriate formula tab (EXD).


3. Use the table to enter data on the EXD - Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description






Field Description









4. Click the Paste to Excel button to insert the formula into the cell. In Excel the formula displays a label(GenQueryDetail...) in the cell. The true formula (EXD(...)) can be seen in the Excel formula bar.


5. Execute the EXD formula using one of the following methods:

Generate a single, selected EXD formula:

Right click on the cell containing the EXD formula, andfrom the popup menu select Generate This Detail List(EXD).

From the EDash ribbon, select the Generate EXD(s) dropdown arrow and from the drop down list select Selected.

Generate all EXD formulas in the workbook:

From the ExecDash menu, select Generate All QueryDetail Lists.

From the EDash toolbar, select the Generate All EXDsicon.

From the EDash ribbon, select the Generate EXD(s) button-or- select the Generate EXD(s) drop down arrow and fromthe drop down list select All.



6.7.1 Sample EXD Formula Targeting a Cell

The following example demonstrates targeting a cell as the Starting Cell/Range/Table value.

1. Initial Excel setup for the example:· Cell A1 - identifies the user-defined report name (i.e. OPEN INVOICES BY VENDOR).· Cell A3 - user-assigned literal, indicating what the parameter value represents (i.e. Vendor).· Cell B3 - identifies the parameter value needed to execute the EXD (i.e. 459).· Cell C3 - user-assigned literal, indicating what type of formula will be used (i.e. EXD).· Cell D3 - location where the EXD formula will reside.· Cells A6-H6 - represents report headers (manually entered in this example).· Cells A7-G7 - represents the first row of output data.· Cell H7 - identifies the fill down column formula (i.e. D7*.09).

2. Setup on the EXD - Formula Assistant panel:· Query Name - use the drop down list or the Open From File button to select the query (i.e. AP Open

Invoices).· Worksheet - use the drop down list to select the worksheet for the output (i.e. Sheet 1).· Starting Cell/Range/Table - indicates the starting cell for the output data (i.e. A7).· Fill Down Column - indicates the number of fill down columns at the end of the output data (i.e. 1).· Include Column Headings - indicates whether or not the EXD formula output data retrieves headings

from the query. The check box is not selected in this example as the headings have previously beenkeyed on the worksheet.

· Clear a Range of Cells - indicates the area of output data to be cleared prior to executing the EXDformula. As this example contains a fill down column (i.e. H7), the clear range starts on the second rowof output data (i.e. A8:H500). This allows the fill down formula to remain for future executions of theEXD.

· Parameters (Vendor #) - indicates the cell on the worksheet where the query parameter resides (i.e. B3).


3. The completed worksheet after EXD execution:



6.7.2 Sample EXD Formula Targeting a Range

The following example demonstrates targeting a range as the Starting Cell/Range/Table value.

1. Initial Excel setup for the example:· Cell A1 - identifies the user-defined report name (i.e. OPEN INVOICES BY VENDOR).· Cell A3 - user-assigned literal, indicating what the parameter value represents (i.e. Vendor).· Cell B3 - identifies the parameter value needed to execute the EXD (i.e. 459).· Cell C3 - user-assigned literal, indicating what type of formula will be used (i.e. EXD).· Cell D3 - location where the EXD formula will reside.· Cells A6-H6 - represents report headers (manually entered in this example).· Cells A7-G7 - a range was created in Excel for these cells and the range was named EXDTargetRange.· Cell H7 - contains a formula (i.e. D7*.09) which will automatically be filled down based upon the rows in

the range when the EXD is generated. This column MUST be directly to the right of the range.


Invoices).· Worksheet - use the drop down list to select the worksheet for the output (i.e. Sheet 1).· Starting Cell/Range/Table - indicates the name of the range for the output data (i.e. EXDTargetRange).· Fill Down Column - indicates the number of fill down columns at the end of the output data (i.e. 1).· Include Column Headings - indicates whether or not the EXD formula output data retrieves headings


· Clear Sheet/Range/Table - indicates whether or not to clear the range of output data prior to executingthe EXD formula. In this example, the check box is selected.

· Parameters (Vendor #) - indicates the cell on the worksheet where the query parameter resides (i.e. B3).



6.7.3 Sample EXD Formula Targeting a Table

The following example demonstrates targeting a table as the Starting Cell/Range/Table value.

1. Initial Excel setup for the example:· Cell A1 - identifies the user-defined report name (i.e. OPEN INVOICES BY VENDOR).· Cell A3 - user-assigned literal, indicating what the parameter value represents (i.e. Vendor).· Cell B3 - identifies the parameter value needed to execute the EXD (i.e. 459).· Cell C3 - user-assigned literal, indicating what type of formula will be used (i.e. EXD).· Cell D3 - location where the EXD formula will reside.· Cells A6-H6 - represents report headers (manually entered in this example).· Cells A7-H7 - a table was created in Excel for these cells and the table was named EXDTargetTable.· Cell H7 - contains a formula (i.e. D7*.09) which will automatically be filled down based upon the rows

in the table when the EXD is generated. This column is in the table.


Invoices).· Worksheet - use the drop down list to select the worksheet for the output (i.e. Sheet 1).· Starting Cell/Range/Table - indicates the name of the range for the output data (i.e. EXDTargetTable).· Fill Down Column - indicates the number of fill down columns at the end of the output data (i.e. 1).· Include Column Headings - indicates whether or not the EXD formula output data retrieves headings


· Clear Sheet/Range/Table - indicates whether or not to clear the table of output data prior to executingthe EXD formula. In this example, the check box is selected.

· Parameters (Vendor #) - indicates the cell on the worksheet where the query parameter resides (i.e.B3).



6.8 Creating and Using EXS Formulas

The EXS formula opens a selector window with the values returned from the specified query. Selectedvalues from the first column are returned to Excel.

1. In Excel, place the cell pointer where the formula is to reside. With an EXS formula placement istypically adjacent to the Cell for Value.

2. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears. Onthe panel, select the appropriate formula tab (EXS).


3. Use the table to enter data on the EXS - Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description








4. Click the Paste to Excel button to insert the formula into the cell. In Excel the formula displays the specifiedSelector Text in the cell. The true formula (EXS(...)) can be seen in the Excel formula bar.

5. To execute the EXS formula, select the cell containing the EXS formula and right click. A popup menuappears. On the popup menu, select Query Select (EXS). The Select Item panel appears.



6. Data in the list may be filtered, re-sorted and/or rearranged as necessary.· To filter data -- enter a value in the appropriate column filter. Alphanumeric fields filter character by

character. Numeric fields filter upon entry of the full field value.· To re-sort data -- click the column heading to re-sort a column in ascending order. Click the column

heading a second time to re-sort the column in descending order.· To move a column -- click and hold on the desired column header, then drag and drop the column right

or left to the desired position.Note: Column order is important, as only the first column of selected data will be inserted in the formula.

7. On the Select Item panel, specify the appropriate Parameter Type and then select the desired value(s):· To select a single value -- double click the value -or- select the value and click Insert Selected

Value(s). The selected value is returned to the Cell for Value cell on the spreadsheet.· To select multiple values -- press and hold the Ctrl key as values are selected. Click the Insert

Selected Value(s) button. The selected values are returned to the Cell for Value cell on thespreadsheet.

· To select multiple values in a range -- select the first value in the range, press and hold the Shift key,and then select the last value in the range. Click the Insert Selected Value(s) button. The selectedvalues are returned to the Cell for Value cell on the spreadsheet.

Example 1:Multiple values for a field to be used by a Smart Parm are selected, and the Insert Selected Value(s)button is selected.


6.9 Creating and Using EXI Formulas

The EXI formula is used to open the detail results of a query in a results window.


2. In Excel from the ExecDash menu, select Formula Assistant. The Formula Assistant panel appears. On thepanel, select the appropriate formula tab (EXI).


3. Use the table to enter data on the EXI - Formula Assistant panel.

Field Description







4. Click the Paste to Excel button to insert the formula into the cell. In Excel the formula displays a label (???)in the cell. The true formula (EXI(...)) can be seen in the Excel formula bar.

5. Copy the EXI formula to the appropriate destination cells.

Note: If the EXI formula is used in conjunction with data generated via an EXD formula and is in an adjacentcolumn, use the EXD Fill Down Column feature to copy the EXI formula to the same number of rowsgenerated by the EXD formula. Refer to Creating and Using EXD formulas for more information.


6. To view detail records for the specified query, select the cell containing the EXI formula and right click. Apopup menu appears. On the popup menu, select Query Detail. The ResultsContainer window appearsdisplaying the detail records for the query.

Nav Tip:This function may also be processed by selecting the cell containing the EXI formula and selectingthe EDash toolbar or ribbon equivalent (see EDash Toolbar or EDash Ribbon).



6.10 Spreadsheet Server .Net Segment Lists

6.10.1 Create/Maintain Segment Lists

Segment Lists are used to create a hierarchy of individual segments which can be used in a formula. A segmentlist may be used within a standard formula by replacing any of the parameters with the desired segment listname. A caret symbol (^) must be inserted prior to the segment list name in the formula for the system torecognize the segment list. A user's ability to create/maintain segment lists is determined by a parameter settingon the user's User tab in the Spreadsheet Server .Net Configurator component.

1. In Excel, ensure you are logged onto Spreadsheet Server .Net.

2. In Excel from the EDash ribbon, select Segment Lists (see EDash Ribbon). The Maintain Segment Listspanel appears.

3. To create a new segment list, enter a segment list name and description, then click the Add List button. Thisaction creates the segment list header.

4. Enter the desired segment values in the Segment List Value field. Click the Add Inclusive Value or AddExclusive Value button depending on desired criteria. If a value is excluded, a slash will appear in front ofthe list value. Single segment values, ranges, wildcards, or existing segment lists (nested) can be used.Segment lists can be used for any portion of the account string. When all values have been entered, clickOK.

5. To remove a value from the segment list, select the value in the grid and click the Remove Value button.

6. To change an existing segment list's description or segment list values, select the desired segment list andkey over the description and/or update the segment list values. When changes are complete, click OK.

7. To copy or delete a segment list, select the list and click either the Copy List or Remove List button.


8. To paste a segment list name to the current active cell on a spreadsheet, select the segment list and click theInsert List icon on the toolbar.

9. To copy all segment list names to the clipboard, click the Copy Segment Lists icon on the toolbar.

10. To lock a segment list, select the list and click the Lock icon on the toolbar. The Password dialog boxappears. Enter the desired password and click OK. Locking the segment list allows other users to access thesegment list but prevents changes from being made.

11. To unlock a segment list, select the list and click the Unlock icon on the toolbar. The Password dialog boxappears. Enter a valid password and click OK.

Note: In the event all segment lists are locked and the individual required passwords are lost or forgotten,contact Global for instructions and the required password for unlocking the segment lists.

12. To purge the balances in the PC Cache file for a segment list, select the list and click the Purge List fromCache icon on the toolbar. This action can be used if a segment list is deleted or if list values are altered.

13. To import segment lists from other users' segment list .mdb files or from an ad hoc, click the Import SegmentLists icon on the toolbar. The system prompts for the source from which to import the segment list, either anad hoc or a segment list mdb. Select the appropriate source. This action opens either a list of existing adhocs or the Windows Explorer panel. Select the desired ad hoc -or- browse to the location of the segment list.mdb file. Once an ad hoc or .mdb file is selected and the values have been imported, the Maintain SegmentLists panel is automatically closed.

14. To access a list of valid values or a list of hierarchy values (Oracle parent groups) for each account segment,click the Locate Segment icon on the toolbar. The Locate a Segment Value or Hierarchy panel appears.

15. To perform a mass clean up of the segment list mdb file based upon filter criteria, click the Cleanup SegmentList Database icon on the toolbar. This function is password protected.

16. When the segment list(s) is complete, click OK.



6.10.2 Using Segment Lists in an Executive Dash Formula

A segment list may be used within any of the Executive Dash formulas (EXQ, EXD, EXS or EXI) by replacing anyof the parameters with the desired segment list name. A caret symbol (^) must be inserted prior to the segmentlist name in the parameter for the system to recognize the segment list.

Formula Example - Using a Segment List:


6.11 Calculating the Spreadsheet

The following options are available for calculating/processing spreadsheets:

F2+Enter Calculates the active cell.

F9 Calculates all worksheets in all open workbooks.

F9+Enter -or-F9+Ctrl+Shift+Enter for arrayformulas

Calculates the selected portion of a formula and replaces the selectedportion with the calculated value.

Shift+F9 Calculates the active worksheet.

Ctrl+Alt+F9 Calculates all worksheets in all open workbooks, regardless of whetherthey have changed since the last calculation.

Ctrl+F9 Minimized a workbook window to an icon.

Nav Tip: The majority of these options are also available by selecting the EDash ribbon equivalent (seeEDash Ribbon).

Index- A -ad hoc queries 84, 86

add 42, 43

fields 42, 43

relationships 39

smart parms 65

tables 37

Add Calculated Field 24, 46

Add Field Descriptions as Aliases 24, 44

Add Smart Parm for This Field 24, 65

Alias (... AS nnnnnn ) 24, 44

alias field name 44

alias table name 21

AS/400 5, 28

auto generate 27

autofit columns 75

average 69

- B -benefits and features 4

build a template 109

EXD 109

EXI 109

EXQ 109

EXS 109

builder 25, 46, 47, 49

calculated fields 46, 47

CASE builder 51

date fields 49

EXD row function 56

get values 58

hard coded criteria 60

panel 25

smart parms 65

- C -calculated fields 46, 47, 49, 51, 56

calculation options 142

CASE builder 51

catalog (see query catalog) 18

components 4, 5

connections 5, 28

container (see results container) 74

convert date fields 25, 49

copy 79

to clipboard 79

to Excel 75, 79

count 69

criteria 23, 58, 60, 62

get values 58

customize grid layouts 75, 78

default 75, 78

remove 75, 78

save/save as 75, 78

- D -date fields 49

DB2 5, 28

Delete Field 24

distinct 25

DSN 5, 28

- E -EDash ribbon 102

EDash toolbar 101

Edit Calculated Field 24, 46

EDQ files 17, 31

error log 31, 97

Excel 7

add-in 7

formulas 108

navigation 99

EXD 108, 109, 114, 124

row function 56

sample target cell 127

sample target range 129

sample target table 131

ExecDash menu 100

EXI 108, 109, 114, 136

Explorer File System panel 17

export 79

to CSV 79

to Excel 75, 79

to PDF 79

to RTF 79

Index 143


expr1 47

expression 69

EXQ 71, 108, 109, 114, 119

EXQ (Summary) Field 24, 71

EXQLMAST.MDB 18, 31

EXS 108, 109, 114, 133

- F -features and benefits 4

field list 23, 43, 71

builder 25

hard coded criteria 60

menu 24

panel 23

fields 43

adding 43

alias name 44

calculated 46, 47, 49, 51, 56

converting dates 25, 49

deleting 24

moving 24

selecting/creating 42

summary 71

file system 17, 31

filter grid records 75

first 69

formula 61, 108

EXD 114, 124

EXI 114, 136

EXQ 114, 119

EXS 114, 133

using segment lists 141

formula assistant 67, 114

- G -get values 58

Grid Action panel 75

group by 23, 69

group footer band 94

group grid records 75

group header band 92

- I -IN statement 58

installation 7

introduction 4

iSeries 5, 28

- J -joins 20, 39

- L -last 69

license key 8

list 64

Log Viewer 97

login 34

- M -manual mode 27, 73

max 69

menu 14, 100

min 69

Move Field 24

- N -navigation 102

EDash ribbon 102

EDash toolbar 101

Excel 99

ExecDash menu 100

Query Desiger ribbon 14

quick access toolbar 14

- O -Oracle 5, 28

- P -parameters 62

Excel 61, 67

panel 22

Query Designer 61, 62

smart parms 64, 65

standard 62



- Q -query 84, 86

ad hoc 84, 86

adding relationships 39

adding tables 37

clone 80

creating 34

definition 82

delete 80

description 80

detail 136

download 81, 104

executing 74

lock/unlock 80

publish 81

saving 36

selecting/creating fields 42

query catalog 31

panel 18

Query Designer 13

Query Designer ribbon 14

Query Exchange 81, 104

download query 81, 104

publish query 81

Query View panel 20

quick access toolbar 14

- R -range 64

registration 8

portable license 11

relationships 20, 39

report designer 89, 90

adding labels 90

adding totals 94

formatting 91

grouping 92

selecting fields 90

re-sort columns 75

results container 74

copy records 79

customize grid layouts 75, 78

export records 75, 79

features 75

layouts 31

ribbon 14, 102

- S -security 31

segment lists 139

create/maintain 139

using in a formula 141

settings 31

SHELL function 27, 73

single value 64, 133

smart parms 64, 65, 133

entry criteria 64

sort 23

SQL Server 5, 28

SQL text 27, 71, 73

panel 27

standard deviation 69

subtotal grid records 75

sum 69

summary fields 71, 119

- T -tables 20, 37

adding 20

alias name 21

remove 21

selecting fields 43, 47

textual 82

toolbar 101

Totals 23, 24, 69

trim 25, 39

- U -uninstall 12

unregister user 8

upgrades 7

- V -value 61

as number 62

as string 62

variance 69

Index 145


view log 31, 97

view registration 8

- W -where 69

wildcard 64

