Making report templates that link to JMP graphics

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Customers often ask us whether it is possible to create report templates that will automatically open with the results of the most recent analyses performed in JMP. Not only is this possible, it is most likely easier than you think.

Briefly, here are the steps that must be taken to accomplish this:

Create the JMP output you want.

Save the desired portions of this output as graphics files.

Insert links to these graphics files into your document(s) of choice (often Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.). Note: This part only has to be done once.

This is all that is required — but we recommend that you also create a script to perform the first two steps; this way, updating the template on a moment’s notice will be a snap.

Once created, the document will open with the most recent versions of the output files. Any time the data changes, perform the first two steps above (or simply run the script). This will output new files, overwriting the old ones. The next time you open your document, it will show the contents of the new files.

Many of our customers love the sound of this, but need a little help getting started. I’ve placed a simple tutorial in the “Sample Data” section of the JMP File Exchange that will lead you through the process step by step. Take a look, and see what you’ve been missing! (Download of tutorial requires a free SAS profile.)