Can multiple data sources be combined in a single Ad Hoc report?

Yes, Ad Hoc data sources with natural relationships between each other can be combined. From the Data Source Configuration tab, select the primary source you wish to build the report from. If a source can be joined with others, an “Add Child” button will appear that will provide a list of available sources that can be joined. Columns from all sources can then be utilized in the report.

How do Filters differ from Criteria, and can they be used simultaneously?

Reporting logic specified in the Criteria tab of an Ad Hoc report is foundational to the report itself and is executed each time the report is generated. Filters provide options for additional data manipulation after a report is generated. Imagine a department with a scheduling report that should always return data associated with certain Work Types but is used to look at data from varying date intervals. The restriction on Work Types is an unchanging parameter and is best handled in the Criteria section of the report. Since date ranges can vary – or not be applied at all – it is best handled by a filter, which gives the user running the report the ability to specify the parameters without having to edit the report Criteria itself.

Can Ad Hoc reports be sent via email on an automated schedule?

“FDR” stands for First Due Reports. These are globally applicable reports that are placed in each client’s account by the First Due Reporting & Platform team, with a goal of providing easy access to completed and vetted reports on common topics of interest. Please visit the First Due Report Knowledge Base article for more information.

An existing First Due Report is very close to the output we need but requires some changes. Can we edit these reports?

Some FDRs – ones that were constructed using the native functionality in Ad Hoc – can be cloned and modified to better suit local needs (adding additional columns, filtering on specific fields, etc.). More complex FDRs may have required custom development outside of Ad Hoc and cannot be modified.

I have a complex reporting need that cannot be accomplished in Ad Hoc or the module-specific reporting products, what options do I have?

The first step will be to contact your Implementation or Client Success specialist. They will review the requirements and help troubleshoot potential issues you are encountering. If confirmed that the desired report output exceeds Ad Hoc’s native functionality, First Due’s Reporting & Platform team will work with you to identify a solution from a menu of custom reporting options.

There are First Due Reports for modules that I don’t even have. Can I turn those off or hide them?

First Due Reports are global. We want all customers to have access to them. You may eventually have that module. We are currently working on a redesign to report organization and folders that should help to keep them out of sight if they are not relevant to your operations. In the meantime though, all Ad Hoc reports have unique URLs. This means you can use your browser’s folder system to organize your favorite reports for quick access.

What is the point of the count of different age groups in Events and why should I care?

Remember – events can be associated to a program. For instance, many states have “EMS for Children” grant funds available. These grant applications often need data to justify why your department should receive a portion of those funds. If you want to send three of your staff to a car seat check training program, you could justify it by showing the number of car seat checks you are currently doing and the impact it has had on your community. With the upcoming release of custom questions, you will really be able to gather extra data around your program efforts to tell your data story!

How should I document things like fit tests, physicals, and vaccination periods when employees should get another vaccine booster?

Many departments are using Certifications for this. Some previous vendors had a concept of “expiring items” rather than one of “Certifications.” The data points are essentially the same – the name of the record type, the start date of a period, the end date, some notes and potentially an attachment. For now, Certifications is a great way to document these items because they are also directly visible on the Personnel record!