Learn to use data analysis mode in Business Central to review and summarize information directly on list and query pages. This mode allows you to work with your data interactively, without altering its original structure.
What is data analysis in Business Central?
In today's blog, we will explore how to use the data analysis function in Dynamics 365 Business Central to analyze list pages and queries.
This tool allows users to examine data directly from the page, without the need to run reports or open other applications like Excel.
Importance of analyzing list pages and queries
Data analysis is crucial for making informed decisions and optimizing business processes. It allows users to calculate, summarize, and examine data interactively and versatilely.
Characteristics of Data Analysis Mode
Interactive and versatile analysis
The data analysis function in Business Central offers an interactive way to work with data. Users can add multiple tabs representing different tasks or data views.
Examples of views and tasks
Some examples of views that can be created include:
- My customers
- Tracked items
- Recently aggregated vendors
- Sales statistics
Prerequisites for Using Analysis Mode in Business Central
Enablement in Business Central version 22
If you're using Business Central version 22, the data analysis feature is in preview. An administrator must enable it before you can use it.·
More information about Feature Management
Required permissions in versions 23 and later
In version 23 and later, your account must be assigned the DATA ANALYSIS – EXEC permission set or include execution permission on the system object 9640 Allow data Analysis Mode. As an administrator, you can exclude these permissions for users you do not want to have access to analysis mode.
Steps to Use Analysis Mode in Business Central
Analysis mode also includes a Microsoft Copilot feature called analysis assistance that can help you get started. Learn more about analysis assistance with Copilot
1. Open the list or query page
To get started, open the list or query page you want to analyze. For example, to work with the Customer Ledger Entries page, select the search icon (Alt+Q), type "Cust. ledg. en" and choose the related link.
2. Enter analysis mode
In the action bar at the top of the page, select the "Enter analysis mode" button. This will open the data in a data analysis-optimized experience.
Analysis mode opens the data in a data analysis-optimized experience.
In analysis mode, the normal action bar is replaced with a special analysis mode bar. The following figure illustrates the different areas of a page in analysis mode.
3. Data manipulation and summary
Use the different areas of analysis mode to manipulate, summarize, and analyze data according to your needs.
4. Exit analysis mode
When you want to stop analysis mode, select the "Exit analysis mode" button. The analysis tabs you have added will remain until you delete them.
Share Data Analysis
1. Preparation and link copy
After preparing an analysis in a tab, you can share it as a link with coworkers. In the analysis tab, select the down arrow and then "Copy link".
The following dialog box opens:
2. Link Configuration
By default, the analysis you share will be linked to the page or query of the company you are currently working on, which is indicated with
company="company_name" in the URL field next to the Copy button.
If you want to send a link to an analysis that is not associated with a specific company, set the Company: field to Do not link to a specific company.
3. Select Copy
4. Share the link on different platforms
Paste the link in the communication medium of your choice, such as Word, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, etc.
5. Recipients can select the link and open the analysis in Business Central
Benefits of Analysis Mode in Business Central
Does not alter underlying data
One of the advantages of analysis mode is that it does not change the underlying data of a list or query page.
Does not change the page design
It also does not alter the page or query design when not in analysis mode, providing a consistent user experience.
Summary of analysis mode benefits
Data analysis mode in Business Central offers a powerful and flexible way to work with data, allowing users to make informed decisions without altering the underlying data.
We invite you to try this feature and discover how it can improve your data analysis in Business Central.
Optimize Your Business with Dynamics 365 Business Central
At ABD Consulting and IT Solutions, we are experts in Dynamics 365 Business Central.
If you need customized solutions to improve data management and analysis in your company, contact us today. We are here to help you transform your processes and take your business to the next level.
I hope you find it helpful.
Conchi Beltrán Reyes
Dynamics Programming –
ABD Consulting and IT Solutions