This blog focuses on implementing and extending business intelligence and B2B collaboration solutions for specialty trade contractors. The goal is to implement and extend solutions gracefully without writing a ton of custom code. I use primarily Microsoft tools such as SharePoint, SSRS, SSAS, Dynamics ERP and WennSoft vertical solutions.

• Video Post

How to Publish an InfoPath form to SharePoint

1.  You will need an InfoPath client.   In InfoPath choose, File > Publish, then click the SharePoint Server button.

2.  First you must publish to a network location that you can access from SharePoint Central Administrator and update some configuration settings.

Read More

• Text Post

Delivery Methods for SSRS Dashboards

I have found that one of the benefits of building dashboards with SQL Server Reporting Services is that we can deliver them to the user in multiple ways without having to re-develop. Here are some examples:

  • Inside GP rich client on the home page or from the customized reports menu
  • Via the Business Analyzer, a stand-alone client application written for Microsoft Dynamics
  • Inside SharePoint / PMP, like this:

         

  Or, I have found I can deliver in other ways, such as:      

Read More

• Link Post

SQL Server 2012 Licensing Overview →

 In SQL 2008R2 there is a requirement to upgrade to SQL Enterprise when you want PowerPivot for SharePoint.  This can difficult to overcome given the price point. The Server + CAL method for the new “BI” edition in SQL 2012 seems to present some new options, especially in an environment that needs multiple SQL servers for data warehousing or development.

• Text Post

Planning a Dashboard Project

Introduction

I have done some presentations recently on dashboards as an entree into Business Intelligence solutions for contractors and thought I would share some of the high points.   This article will cover what the goals of dashboards are, several things to consider in design, some common misconceptions and  considerations when considering moving your organization along the path to becoming an insights-driven organization.

Read More

Stuff I Like ♥

Following