Reviewing Report Creation Methods

Objective

After completing this lesson, you will be able to differentiate between the three methods of creating a report in SAP Fieldglass.

Report Creation Methods

There are three methods for creating a report in SAP Fieldglass, depending on the output that a user is looking achieve. These methods include editing an existing report for one-time output, copying an existing report and making changes, or configuring a brand-new report.

1. Editing an Existing Report for One-time Output

Users can select an existing report that closely matches the requirements for the data output they wish to achieve. They can then edit the report to tailor it to their specific needs, such as by adding, removing, or reordering the fields included in the report, changing the layout, or adjusting the date range. Once the necessary changes have been made, users can save and run the report for one-time output, allowing them to immediately access the information they need without having to create a new report from scratch.

2. Copying an Existing Report and Making Changes

Another method for creating reports in SAP Fieldglass is to copy an existing report and make changes to the copy needed. This approach allows users to leverage the structure and settings of an already existing report while customizing it to fit their unique requirements. Users can duplicate an existing report and then modify the copied version by adding or removing fields, adjusting filters, or updating the layout. By copying an existing report and making changes, users can save time and effort by building upon the foundation of an existing report rather than building it brand new.

As a caveat, users should avoid copying predefined reports. These reports often contain custom fields that may not function correctly in new reports with different base modules or structures.

3. Configuring a Brand-New Report

For reports that require completely unique parameters or layouts, users can opt to create a new report from the ground up. This approach provides users with flexibility to define the specific fields, filters, and layout of the report to best support their reporting needs. Users can choose the data fields they want to include, set the report criteria, and arrange the layout to present the information in the most effective way. This method is ideal for creating reports that do not align with any existing templates or for customizing reports to meet specific, detailed requirements.

Summary

This lesson defines the three SAP Fieldglass report creation methods and when to use each: edit an existing report for one-time needs, copy and modify an existing report, or configure a brand-new report.

  • Edit an existing report for one-time output: adjust fields, layout, and date range; run and save as a one-off to quickly obtain needed data.
  • Copy an existing report: duplicate its structure, then modify fields, filters, and layout for reusable variants. Avoid copying predefined reports; custom fields may break across modules.
  • Configure a brand-new report from scratch: build from scratch, selecting every field, filter, criteria, and layout to meet unique requirements when no existing base report fits as a starting template.
  • Method selection: base your choice on output specificity, reusability needs, and alignment with existing reports to minimize effort while preserving accuracy and flexibility.