Variables

You can create variables to use in report output columns, filters, images, text fields, and data exceptions.

Using a variable in an output column lets you return different data, or data in different formats, in the same column. For example, you could create a single report that displays the number of incidents by staff member, group, queue, or status. You select which of the four variable values to use in the report from the Search window or from a menu at the top of the report if the variable is docked.

Using a variable in a filter lets you combine the functionality of filters with the flexibility of variables. For example, you could create a variable that groups records together in time periods, and then create a filter with an expression of date_format(opportunities.created, $date_group), where $date_group is the variable to filter on opportunities created during a particular year. To use the filter, you would simply enter the year you want to report on. Without such a filter, the report would need to include a filter using the between operator that requires entering both a start time and an end time.

Using a variable in a data exception lets you use a single exception to flag different data. This eliminates the need to create multiple exceptions to flag data in different columns. For example, you could use a variable in an exception to flag incidents that were created more than one day ago or to flag incidents that were updated more than one day ago. The information you want to flag is selected on the Search window when you run the report. See Create a Data Exception.

Using a variable in an image lets you dynamically generate links to web pages and change the displayed image when you select different variable values. See Add an Image to a Report Section. Using a variable in a text field lets you display the variable’s current value in the text field. See Display a Filter Value in a Text Field.