Advanced Reporting Overview

Introduction to Reporting

• Workday provides two main types of reports: Standard Reports and Express Reports.

Types of Reports

Standard Reports

• Created using the same functionalities as the Custom Reports (Report Writer).
• Standard reports can be cloned and edited.
• You can run, schedule, and modify them as needed.
• To copy a standard report, use the task "Copy Standard Report to Custom Report".

Express Reports

• Different from standard reports, potentially using SQL queries in the background (details not available to users).
• Not clonable; users can run and view output but cannot modify or edit them.
• Primarily for running and scheduling without editing capability.

Data Sources

• Data sources are central repositories for data in Workday.
• Two primary types of data sources: Standard and Index.
  • Standard Data Source: Traditional reporting options.
  • Index Data Source: Enhanced features for faster data retrieval, similar to an index in a book.
• Performance: Index sources improve performance with larger datasets (e.g., over 50,000 records).
• Important to choose the right data source based on potential future complexities and growth.

Limitations with Indexed Data Sources

• Not all standard data sources have an indexed version, and some have population restrictions.
• Changing data sources is possible only if the primary business object remains the same.

Key Differences Between Standard and Express Reports

• Standard Reports: Clonable, editable, can be scheduled.
• Express Reports: Not clonable or editable, can be run and scheduled.

Creating Custom Reports

Types of Custom Reports

• Simple Reports: Basic, meant for quick data checks, not suitable for integrations.
• Advanced Reports: Can be used as a web service and for integrations.

Features of Advanced Reports

• Can be enabled as a Web Service for integration purposes.
• Allow more functionality and are suitable for complex reporting needs.
• When creating an advanced report, you can select indexed data sources for better performance.

Scheduling and Sharing Reports

• Reports can be shared with specific groups (e.g. managers) rather than individual users.
• Prompts can be added to allow users to filter reports based on their needs (e.g., entering a supervisory organization).

Conclusion

• Understanding the differences between report types and data sources is crucial for effective reporting in Workday.
• Always consider future scalability when creating reports and choose the appropriate type based on the needs of different departments.