Take Your Query Tool to the Next Level

Editor's Notes

• #2: ============ (on-line….notes) -- PPT 15 -18 minutes! Less time is better, long demo MIke -- Hello everyone and welcome to today’s webinar – Take Your Query Tool to the next level with SEQUEL. : During today’s presentation, we will address common frustrations why basic query tools could be failing you or just holding you back, discuss major data access and distribution trends, and help you understand what to look for in a more advanced query tool. …………………. Notes: --notes…. Goal: 30 minute or less webinar (PPT – Less than 20 minutes + Live Demo 10 minutes) Setup Polling: OPEN Poll #18 – Break Free from Basic QUERY – to be used Just Before Demo Abstract: Take Your Query Tool to the Next Level with Sequel Your query tool has been around for a while—a long while. It used to be state-of-the-art, but now you’ve started to realize that it’s failing you. Badly. Your management team and business users deserve better. In this webinar, we’ll address more than ten common frustrations with the IBM i basic query tool and show you how a modern, advanced data access tool gives you quick access to your data and helps you present it in a way that is useful to your users.Join us to learn how a data access tool like SEQUEL makes it possible to:• Empower your users with executive dashboards• Access data from other servers (including SQL, DB2, and so on)• Save your results in Microsoft Excel, Adobe PDF, etc.• And more!
• #3: Mike: My name is Mike Stegeman. I will be your host for today’s webinar. I am a Senior Data Access Consultant with Sequel Software working in the Schaumburg, IL office outside of Chicago. Today, we have another DB expert that has joined us, Heath how are you doing? Heath: I am doing great, thank you. My Name is Heath Kath. I am also a Sr. Data Access Consultant with Help Systems. I have been working on the IBM i, around data access, for over 24 years. I actually worked IBM in Rochester MN supporting Query/400, SQL, and other DB tools. Today I am excited to show you some of the challenges that I and many others have run into with basic query tools . Mike: About today’s session, if you have questions during the session, please use the CHAT feature and send a message to All Panelists, and we will address those questions during our Q&A at the conclusion of the webinar. I am also recording the webinar and we will include a link to the recording in our follow-up email usually within a day. Now, let’s go ahead and get started. (next slide)
• #4: HEATH – “lets just jump right into today’s presentation, starting with: “Next slide… do NOT talk on. As for our agenda, we will start off with some of the basics on why query tools are so helpful, address common limitations that are pushing us to take the query tools to the next level, and help you understand what to look for in a more advanced query tool. Of which is then followed by a quick demonstration and Q&A. SO please stick around for that.
• #5: Heath –(say): why you use a query tool? Query Tools are an Efficient way to access data- You may have a lot of data to analyze. This data could be over any one or several tables (Customer, Patient, Distribution, Accounting or Sales information ) You may need to query your data for compliance purposes Collect and examine data History Analyze current and past trends Collect Audit information Also, Query tools needs to be Flexible – able to handle all type of scenarios different files, different types of data, and should be able to access data both local and remote systems or databases. We are all on a tight budget, the tools need to be Affordable – Keep the data on the IBM I, no need to invest in new hardware. Just over 94% of businesses—believe IBM i provides a better ROI than other servers. Also tools that have a quick learning curve, able to access and distribute the data as needed will also save money. Tools must be Easy To Use – From designing new queries to the Sharing of information. Users should be able to easily view, print, or email the information. Maybe your tools need remote access, to be mobile. To borrow a line from the financial world where a person could be income rich and cash poor, meaning they have a good income but their assets are limited. Many organizations are Data Rich but Information Poor. Maybe your query tool is not exactly up to par, Without a proper query tool, the data contained within the files is just data. You need a proper query tool to select the data converting it to useful information.
• #6: < Skip over … don’t talk to this slide> Limitation of some query tools
• #7: Why take… Many query tools have limited output options, many users today use query/400, and there is no way to send results directly to Excel or PDF document You query tool could be difficult to manage and distribute because it lacks the ability to define users roll. Simply put - should they be able to run and design the queries, or just run only? Query tools have limited output options, unable to deliver the results to the users in the way they want them? Unable to easily schedule to automate the process, unable to email or send the results in a PC document like Excel or PDF. Many query tools require users to modify or create new queries because the tool fails to allow them Runtime prompts, the flexibility that allow the users to run the same query inputting different date ranges, or customer numbers, based on their needs at that time. Multiple users can use the SAME exact report but get different data, get data, the business information they need at that time. Do you need a query tool that allows you multiple interface options such as green browser, pc, and mobile access to your data? All from one tool. Maybe you need to query data on remote databases such as an MS SQL Server, Oracle, or MySQL? By taking your query tool to the next level, you, other end users, programmers, upper management will start to see faster access to the data they need, and it will have a more modern look and feel. IF the users can get the information themselves, this will free up some of the programmers times. Plus, these users – can easily export the data if needed, maybe as an excel or pdf document. No more copying and pasting of data. Simply put – users want something new, exciting, powerful, and it must be easy to use.
• #8: What should the next query tool have
• #9: Heath - By taking your QUERY tool to the next level , you and your users will begin to see data in a new variety of ways. A powerful tool allows you quick and easy access to data. Flexibility to export data from views, to reports, to PC documents and customized dashboard. Dashboards can be created for managers or other users, not just executives. Users should be able to access dashboards quickly and simply by clicking on a link or a shortcut, maybe from a PC desktop or a link in a Browser. With a browser solution you open the door for mobility… I am sure most of us probably have laptops, smart phones and tablets. Just think about the possibilities… in a meeting, walking through the warehouse, you are always able to get the needed information.
• #10: Heath – In the next few slides I will help break it down more by ROLE. But the key thing to remember, what are your goals, why do you need to take your query tool to the next level? One way or another, these all may apply to you. As a report designer? You need <<use pointer>> A Graphical User Interface – that is quick and easy to use, allowing you to drag and drop, double click to build the queries and reports. This GUI interface allows data, the results to be Printed, Emailed, Displayed, and sent to a PC documents. The GUI interface also includes Wizard to walks your through, helping you build the queries when necessary A product that doesn't require you to know how to write a program or even know SQL. You may not know this. SQL, structured query language, is one of the fastest method of data access. Query tool that allows you to access data on remote databases. Maybe on other partitions or remote database such as MS SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL database… In order to stay competitive in today’s business environment, you need a robust tool, you need flexibility, you need quick access to your data, but also you need to present business information it in a way that is most useful to your users.
• #11: Heath – Just to expand a bit more on Report Designers. If you are like most of the customers that we work with, you or someone has spent a lot of time building queries, you could possibly have several hundreds. When taking your QUERY product to the next level, you need a solution that allows you to keep your work, to be able to import and convert those existing queries or SQL statements so you don’t lose all that work. A tool that allows designers to easily add calculated and derived fields, converting that RAW query data into meaningful business information. One report that can be use by several analysts, one query to be run by different users, different departments, managers and so on. A report With the flexibility of runtime prompts, will allow users to enter in or select customer numbers, date ranges, locations, departments and so much more at runtime. They will be able to get the information that they need and have been requesting. A tool that can take advantage of the newer SQE (SQL Query Engine) on the IBM I, by the way-- this has been proven to improve run-time performance especially over extremely large data files on averages from 3 to 10 times faster, but we have seen some customers improved there runtime up to 90 times….imagine, a query job that used take several hours now running in just minutes. A product that allows you to build both simple and advance queries from selecting one to several files and or even several members.
• #12: Heath - (say): Now, As an Administrator, there looking for new tools that have offer a: quick and easy installation. Doesn’t require days, weeks, months to get the product up and running. A flexible solutions that allows users to access data from scheduled jobs, their PC, and from a browser. Access to quality support and documents like user guides A product that is continuously being enhanced… possibly requests from the user on what they need Affordable - Software updates and conversions that are included – NO additional or hidden costs A powerful tool that allows them to secure the data, allowing access to the data by the users who need it and Only those who are authorized to it. Maybe even turn on Auditing to track what the users are accessing. These audit reports are extremely useful feature to system managers and Auditors, especially when compliance issues are involved.
• #13: Heath - << Use Pointer>> The Business analysts, they are looking for query tools that will improve the data access to the data distribution. You may need the query results EMAILED, DISPLAYED, FTP’d, or to be able to send the results directly to an Excel, PDF, Text, or HTML file Need flexibility of automation, to be able to email, print or ftp the results on a daily, weekly, monthly basis Majority of existing queries today have a hard coded date range or some other records selection. A proper query tool will allow the analysts to select data for the last 2 weeks, but another analysts can run the same query and get business information for the entire month with runtime prompts. As an analyst, you may need to have summarized data displayed but than to be able to drill into the detail or underlying data. Need quick access to current, relevant data - True BI – saving time saves money. To be able to display key business information in a dashboard Have multiple interfaces to Access the data,, from a green screen, a PC, or a Browser…. Which leads to mobile devices. To be able to access data efficiently, quickly, even over several millions of records. And, to be able to get Excellent Support , to be able to go on-line to a Web site and get additional help by reviewing: On-line Tips Recorded How To Demos Review other customer’s testimonials Get User Guides and other helpful documentation?
• #14: Heath – A great tool that will allow you to take it to the next level is SEQUEL. SEQUEL software is tool that is just the right size for data access and the distribution needs for all types of users and businesses.  SEQUEL is a complete tool set, use a single BI solution that allows you do to most everything, from the creation to the distribution of information.  SEQUEL can provide data to analysts in a variety of forms and formats. You have data coming in from your applications, remote databases like an MS SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, or from a data warehouse like SEQUEL Data Warehouse. SEQUEL can help distribute the information, whether simply displaying the information, emailing, providing summary data for the user to drill into details on demand.  And, for those power users, they can easily build powerful views, custom reports, drill-downs, dashboards, build charts, and more – very quickly with our graphical user interface.
• #15: Heath. Our demonstration is coming up next. I have a hand full of questions, lets take just a couple of minutes… (2 min) Please read through the questions and when finish, press the submit button. Are you able to easily create PC documents, xls, pdf, rtxt, xml and so forth? Are your users on the move and would they benefit from mobile access to the data? Do you need to access data on other partitions or remote databases? What does your organization use to access data today? Polling question: Poll [18] Break Free from Basic Query Tools Show RESULTS! THANK YOU
• #16: Heath – say: At this time I am going to show a brief demonstration of SEQUEL…. <Bring up Next Slide and then share screen>
• #17: Heath- In about 15 minutes, I will show some features of Query/400, showing its’ limitations. Then jump right into SEQUEL. Sequel is easy to install, easy to learn and easy to use. If you get stuck or have questions, we have excellent tips and documents on line, and we have world class support to assist you along the way any way we can. <<share desktop and play video or do live demo. Demo is 15.5 minutes> ----------------- Demo Script ------------------------------ Show basic query and basic SQL options… green screen WRKQRY RUNQRY Show VP designer window and import an existing query, enhance it – add runtime prompts VP Overview Import Enhance (case logic, date conversion, runtime prompt) Build quick simple dashboard – summarized view with chart Views: AR with pie chart over each column, gauge over total Views: Open dashboard from SWI – show the runtime prompts and output options As closing … just show the consolidated dashboard and remote dashboard and close quickly. [RUN RECORDED WALK-THRU; Heath/MIKE TALKS OVER IT LIVE] Jump back after showing the last consolidated dashboard that is shown just as an example… (15 minute demo)
• #18: Heath - To review what you should look for in a Query Tool when going to the next level. <<use pointer>> No longer do you have to struggle with those query limitations, those current query tools that you are using, are holding you back -- maybe because it has limited output options, limited support, slow, can’t access real time data, not able to access remote data, etc.. Your query tool should be: Flexible to handle scenarios from simple to complex. Allow the users to get the information they need, when they need it, and how . Users need to be able to display information on the screen, print, email, ftp, or even export the data as a PC document such as Excel or PDF. Affordable – taking into consideration the costs in terms of hardware, setup, deployment. Users can access the information quickly from their PC , from their smart phone or tablet. A solution that offers multiple licensing for different size businesses. Should have an easy to use graphical user interface, a solution that is easy to download and configure, be up and running in hours verses days, weeks, or even several months. Needs mobility, easy access to data from a browser… just a click of a button. Is efficient with processing, uses the faster query engine on the IBM I, and allows runtime variables – making sure the users get the business information they need, when they need it, and quickly. SEQUEL Is a tool that has many advanced functions, for when you need them.
• #19: HEATH - That is all I have today, so I will hand it over to Mike for the wrap up.
• #20: Mike - Excellent, thank. HelpSystems is a diverse company with solutions for system automation, document management, security and business intelligence. This June in Minneapolis, we are holding our user conference. This will give you the opportunity to meet several Help Systems employees and network with other customers. You can gain more product knowledge through a large selection of the available sessions.
• #21: Mike - AND today and for short time we are offering some special deals that you should take advantage of… give us a call if interested.
• #22: Mike: Heath, let’s take a look at the questions that came in during todays session. And if you still have a question or two, please send them to all panelists. Please keep in mind that we only just scratched the surface in showing you some of SEQUEL’s capabilities. Lets take a look…. Heath: Mike as you are looking for questions…I am going to bring up another quick poll at the same time, (bring up another POLL on top of this slide ): The results will be kept to us, we will not share them. We are curious… How helpful was today session and is there another topic or area on BI solutions, data access, dashboards, or even general topics on the IBM I that you would like additional information…. Maybe we some information that could help or we could possibly build a presentation to. Once you are set, press the submit button to complete the survey. You response will not be shared back, this is to help us. **Poll [2016 - 02] IBM i 101 ( Do Not Share!) Did you find today’s overall content helpful (1 to 5, 5 being very beneficial)  (select 1 thru 5) What other areas or subjects would you like to learn more about?   Questions - fillers: Sample QUESTIONS: (Host reads the questions and Expert to answer them… unless the export has a questions that was sent to him via a chat) Do you need a separate license between the users and administrators or designers? No, with SEQUEL licensing we only look at the jobs being run, not so much on who is doing the request. Does SEQUEL provide a GUI interface that all users can use? Yes, SEQUEL ViewPoint is the Thick Client or the GUI front end that your users can use. With VP, users will be able to design Query objects just by dragging and dropping and double clicking. They do not need to know SQL to build a view, just the files they want to get information from. The option to create and deploy dashboards, does it come with SEQUEL? Yes, absolutely Does the Tabling features come with SEQUEL? Yes, both the HOST and CLIENT Tables options are included, and you can access both tables from VP and from SWI How can I get additional information about SEQUEL Web Interface? Contact us …. Call / email / web … The ability to create dashboards, does it come with SEQUEL? Can SEQUEL be used by ALL type of users from basic or your end user to a power user ? Yes…. With the SEQUEL software you will find that all users, managers, CEO’s can use SEQUEL to get the data that they need. How SECURE is SEQUEL and your SWI? You have full control of security. We do support IBM’s object authority, if someone does not have authority to the object, they can not access or query that data. You can define what users can run SEQUEL object or do both Run and Design SEQUEL objects. Can data displayed in Dashboards from SWI have the data be automatically refreshed? Yes..
• #23: Mike: I want to thank everyone for attending today’s presentation. If you have any further questions, or would like to take a closer look at SEQUEL and how we can help solve your query issues, Please feel free to reach out to us and we can schedule a demo. That concludes or presentation on Take Your Query Tool to the Next Level with Sequel Thank you, and have a great day! ** STOP RECORDING