Tools

Tools

A variety of business intelligence (BI) tools are used at FGCU to support data access, reporting, and analysis. The three enterprise tools recognized and supported by the Data Systems and Reporting team are Cognos, Tableau, and SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS). These tools work together to help FGCU staff and leadership make informed decisions using accurate, accessible, and well-presented data.

Data Landscape Matrix

Cognos is a web-based suite of tools from IBM that provides a wide range of business intelligence (BI) capabilities - including reports, dashboards, scorecards, and data analysis. It enables users to access and interact with data from various university systems to support operational and strategic decision-making.

At FGCU, Cognos is a key BI platform used to access data from systems such as Student ODS/EDW, Finance, HR, and other institutional data sources.

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Cognos Licensing Levels

Consumer
Designed for users who need to view and interact with existing reports through the Cognos web portal. Consumers typically use standard reports to support their daily tasks and do not need in-depth knowledge of the underlying data.
- Training Required: Basic data literacy training.
Authoring
This license level provides access to the report-building tools within Cognos. Authors can create, modify, and publish reports for broader use across the university.
- Training Required: Intermediate to advanced training in data structure and report development.

Access & Support: For licensing or access requests, contact helpdesk@fgcu.edu.
Managed By: Information Technology Services (ITS)

Tableau is a powerful data visualization platform that helps users explore data through interactive dashboards and visual storytelling, making it easier to identify trends and gain insights.

At FGCU, Tableau is used in two main ways:

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Tableau Desktop

A PC-based tool that allows users to build data connections, create visualizations, and design dashboards. With drag-and-drop functionality, users can explore data, drill down into details, and uncover insights without needing advanced technical skills. Tableau Desktop connects to live databases, spreadsheets, or blended data sources and generates queries to quickly display visual results.

Purpose: Create and design dashboards and visualizations
License: PC Named User License (usable on up to two devices)
Access: Requires a license key provided upon purchase
Request Access: Email helpdesk@fgcu.edu

Tableau Server

A browser- and mobile-accessible platform that allows users to view and interact with dashboards published from Tableau Desktop. It supports enterprise-wide sharing of live, interactive dashboards that can be embedded in FGCU portals or accessed directly. Users can filter, drill down, and explore data in real time.

Purpose: Share dashboards and visualizations across the university
License: Enterprise Site License
Managed By: Information Technology Services (ITS)

SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) is a Microsoft platform used to create, manage, and deliver paginated reports - ideal for operational and transactional reporting needs. SSRS is especially useful when consistent, print-ready formats are required, such as rosters, schedules, or compliance reports.

At FGCU, SSRS is used to support structured reporting from various university systems, offering reliable and repeatable outputs for administrative and academic operations.

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Key Features

Paginated Reports: Designed for precise layouts and printing
Operational Reporting: Ideal for transactional data and routine reporting
Data Sources: Connects directly to SQL Server databases and other structured data sources
Delivery Options: Reports can be scheduled, emailed, or accessed via a secure web portal

Access & Support: For access or report development requests, contact helpdesk@fgcu.edu
Managed By: Information Technology Services (ITS)