Checklist for implementing a dashboard
Whichever system you choose, keep in mind that:
- The dashboard is like a “live” camera. It should be super easy to update
- The knowledge on maintaining and updating the dashboard shouldn’t be in the hands of one person. Make sure you have at least three people that have the knowledge to update it
- It shouldn’t complicate your existing IT infrastructure and it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg. Remember, you need it to provide guidance and reduce risks. You don’t want your dashboard to become the risk.
- It should be one, maximum two pages
- It should be easy to understand and accepted by management
- It definitely needs to be pleasant on the eye
Your dashboard needs to provide the answers to your questions (depending on what is relevant for you at the time) such as, should we invest in this new business? Should we tweak our product line? How are we performing as compared to our competition? What it shouldn’t do, is become a drag and a headache generator, because you can’t get a hold of anyone to update it.
Leila Gharani
I'm a 6x Microsoft MVP with over 15 years of experience implementing and professionals on Management Information Systems of different sizes and nature.
My background is Masters in Economics, Economist, Consultant, Oracle HFM Accounting Systems Expert, SAP BW Project Manager. My passion is teaching, experimenting and sharing. I am also addicted to learning and enjoy taking online courses on a variety of topics.
