In PPM, you can view data in a variety of ways. Forms are designed for entering or reporting the data of one specific item or portfolio at a time. This data is then aggregated into big picture formats that provide you with an overall view of your portfolio, such as investor maps and scorecards. Forms have several unique features and qualities that make them more suitable for some Portfolio Management tasks:
- Data Entry: forms are an intuitive data entry mechanism for single items and portfolios. Data entry components are arranged using tabs and group boxes, enabling a flexible form design. Form designers can tailor specific forms, guiding the user through an efficient work process.
- Reports: forms are a great reporting tool, displaying up-to-date information in both alpha-numeric and graphical formats. Users can access external web sites, documents, and other modules within the PPM application by embedding web links in any text they enter.
Status reports can be circulated within the organization in several ways. Links to forms can be sent using email, hard copies can be printed, and forms can be exported as Microsoft Word files. These links can also be embedded in other document formats including Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Item/Portfolio Repository: forms are excellent main repositories, storing all the relevant data and analysis information on each item in the system. While working with portfolio level views like Scorecards and Investor Maps, one can drill down to the main repository and get comprehensive information on the item in focus.