Quick Query Provides Rapid and Customized Ad Hoc Analysis for Multi-Level Users

By Monica McDonald

Information Builders recently introduced WebFOCUS Quick Query, the industry's first ad hoc reporting tool for business users, which is available without a per-user fee.

Unlike most Business Intelligence tools, which are geared to advanced users with complex information requirements, Quick Query was designed to meet the needs of any user, from novice to advanced. The product is the first of its kind to offer users the source code for a completely customizable ad hoc tool that can be deployed for an unlimited number of users, so that customers no longer need to buy a seat-based license for an ad hoc solution.

Customers these days require more flexible Business Intelligence solutions that can be customized to fit individual needs. Information Builders designed WebFOCUS Quick Query to expand the capabilities and functionality for custom reporting environments. This product now allows multiple levels of users to get quick answers to their queries, without all the complex features of full ad hoc reporting.

WebFOCUS Quick Query is tailored to quickly run and display a WebFOCUS report in any desired output such as HTML, Excel 2000, or PDF. With user-friendly drag-and-drop functionality, users can rapidly select columns and run sorts specific to the task at hand. WebFOCUS Quick Query gives a nontechnical user the ability to quickly access any data source and generate reports complete with data visualization, conditional styling, subtotals, filtering and corporate logo.

WebFOCUS Quick Query has a thin-client architecture, which enables users to build and save new reports via the Internet, without the requirement for additional desktop software, plug-ins, or Java™. With multiple selection criteria, finished reports contain only the information the user needs to see, avoiding more functionality than is necessary. In addition, WebFOCUS Quick Query's one-time, unlimited seat pricing is a more cost-effective way to empower any user with the ability to create his or her own reports.

WebFOCUS Quick Query also allows for optional scheduling and distribution capabilities for reports configured under Managed Reporting and saved as a custom report. Users can deliver reports to e-mail, printer, fax machines, or their personal folders. For more information on WebFOCUS Quick Query, please contact your Information Builders sales representative.