Who isn't familiar with monthly reporting, budget monitoring and sales reports? For many of us, this usually means logging into an ERP system such as Microsoft Dynamics once a month, downloading the required data and copying it into Excel or PowerPoint. This manual process is not only time-consuming, but also carries the risk of errors and outdated data.
But what if these files were "magical"? If they automatically updated themselves when opened and always contained the latest data? In fact, this has been possible for over 20 years! Modern Excel and PowerPoint files can be set up so that they automatically connect to the ERP system when opened and retrieve the latest data.
What are magic files?
Magic files are reports and presentations that automatically update themselves with the latest data when they are opened. You no longer have to manually update, copy or paste anything. Simply open the file and the latest data is available for your monthly reports, budget monitoring and planning.
Imagine opening an Excel file, automatically connecting to your Microsoft account, and within seconds all the data is updated - without you having to lift a finger. This technology is based on so-called OLAP cubes and integration with systems such as Microsoft Dynamics.
How does the automatic update work?
For over two decades, Excel has enabled automatic data updating through the use of data connections. These can be set up to connect to your ERP system, for example Dynamics. When you open the file, the queries are executed and the latest data is loaded. The process often only takes a few seconds and is child's play:
- Open the fileThe file automatically connects to your ERP system at startup.
- RegistrationThe connection is usually made via your Microsoft account.
- Query is executedThe data is updated within a few seconds and the OLAP queries retrieve the latest information.
- Updated reportsYour file is now filled with the latest data - and you no longer have to perform any manual steps.
The advantages of automated reports
The advantages are obvious:
- Time savingNo manual data updates and no sources of error due to copy-paste.
- ActualityYou always have the latest figures without having to worry about updating them.
- EfficiencyWhether sales reports, monthly reports or budget controls - your reports are always up to date and can be used immediately.
These automated reports can be set up not only for Excel, but also for PowerPoint. This means you always have up-to-date data in presentations and save yourself the monthly update and manual adjustment.
Do your reports already work "magically"?
If your reports and files are not yet updated automatically, you should definitely consider this option. Whether it's sales reports, seat position reports or monthly analyses - automatic data updating saves time, reduces errors and ensures that your figures are always up to date.
If you are interested in how your reports and files can become "magical", please get in touch with us. We can show you how to connect your reports to ERP systems such as Dynamics and harness the power of automation. This puts an end to manual updates and allows you to concentrate on the essentials: well-founded decisions based on data that is always up to date.
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If you have any further questions on this topic or require support with your data analysis, please do not hesitate to contact us.
