What is F9?

F9 is a reporting solution specifically tailored for financial reporting. It enhances the capabilities of Microsoft Excel by dynamically linking general ledger data to provide a real-time view of business information. This powerful tool facilitates access and consolidation of data without the need for writing code, making it accessible for users with varying levels of technical expertise.

With F9, users can access data whether it's stored on premise or in the cloud, including SQL databases, spreadsheets, and various cloud applications. The software supports a range of functionalities such as flexible cell-based reporting, consolidations, drill-downs, budgeting, forecasting, and report analysis. Additionally, F9 can automate and schedule reports to run and distribute them automatically, streamlining the reporting process.

The service aspect of F9 includes consulting and implementation services designed to ensure clients maximize the utility of the F9 tool within their businesses. These services are delivered on-time and on-budget, with minimal disruption, by a professional services team with expertise in financial management and technology. The team is experienced in serving a wide array of clients and industries, offering training and support to enhance user experience.

Understanding the data types with F9 involves recognizing its seamless integration with Excel and the ease of use provided by features like the report wizard, table & pivot reports, and report automation. F9's capability extends to handling general ledger (GL) functions, and it supports financial management activities such as budgeting and forecasting. The software is designed for quick return on investment (ROI) and offers optional training for users who wish to deepen their understanding of its functionalities.

F9 Plugin for Excel

Reporting Solution and Excel Integration

F9 is a reporting solution that acts as an Excel add-in, integrating seamlessly to provide dynamic and reusable reporting capabilities. It offers the convenience of calculating F9 formulas within seconds and allows for the distribution of reports in one go. Additionally, F9 can schedule reports to automatically run, ensuring up-to-date data is always available.

Compatibility with Excel Versions

F9 is compatible with Excel 2013 and later versions, supporting both 32-bit and 64-bit editions. However, it does not support Click-to-Run Excel installations, including partially downloaded or installed versions, nor does it support Office running on the web. To function correctly, F9 may require .NET Programmability support in Excel, and it is important to note that the Excel bitness must match that of F9. Excel 2007 is not supported by F9.

Benefits of Using F9

F9 is recognized for its user-friendly interface that enhances Excel's capabilities, rapidly presenting real-time business information. With the ability to calculate formulas anywhere in Excel, F9 aids in building dynamic reusable reports, which saves time and allows for more in-depth analysis of the results. It supports role-based access to ensure data security and can connect to both on-premise and cloud data sources, including SQL databases, spreadsheets, and cloud applications. F9 simplifies the consolidation of data without requiring complex coding and facilitates the retrieval of budget balances from the General Ledger (GL). It also assists in creating budget scenarios from actuals and building accurate forecasts. Furthermore, F9 streamlines the reporting process by automating report scheduling and distribution.

Common Use Cases

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  Real-time financial reporting and analysis
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  Dynamic creation of reusable general ledger reports
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  Strategic planning and budget forecasting
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  Consolidation of financial data from multiple sources without coding
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  Automation of manual report building and distribution processes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the F9 plugin for Excel?

The F9 plugin for Excel is a financial reporting and analysis solution that operates as an add-in within Microsoft Excel. It provides a real-time view of business information by dynamically linking general ledger data to Excel and helps in building dynamic, reusable reports.

How does F9 improve financial reporting?

F9 improves financial reporting by automating manual processes, providing real-time data consolidation without the need for month-end close processes, and offering features like the Scheduling Hub, Insert functions, and Data Refresh. It eliminates manual creation of reports in Excel, thus saving time and increasing efficiency.

Can F9 connect to different data sources?

Yes, F9 can connect to over 150 general ledgers and ERP systems, and it enables access to SQL databases, spreadsheets, or cloud applications without coding. It can connect to data stored on-premises or in the cloud.

What are some key features of the F9 plugin?

Key features of the F9 plugin include the ability to perform calculations across Excel quickly, the F9 Report Writer for dynamic report building, the F9 Viewer for independent report interaction, the Scheduling Hub for managing reports, and account security for role-based access control. It also includes wizards for report creation, specific filters for different ERPs, and the capability to generate and distribute multiple reports simultaneously.

Is the F9 plugin difficult to learn and use?

Learning to use the F9 plugin can take as little as two weeks without formal training, and it requires minimal IT assistance for setup and maintenance, making it user-friendly and accessible for finance teams.