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Partner TechTip: Convert Queries for Increased Performance and Modern Results

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Don't let a library of useful but outdated queries stop you from modernizing how you deliver your data.

 

Are you still running IBM i green-screen queries? How many queries are you dealing with? Are you finding it hard to manage all those queries? Are your users tired of waiting for a slow-running query that can use only the Classic Query Engine (CQE)? Would your users prefer a modern, graphical interface with more distribution options?

 

With SEQUEL, you can quickly and easily convert existing query definitions into SEQUEL objects without losing all of the work that has already been put into building them. Plus, you can take the newly imported views and quickly and easily enhance them. You can even configure your new SEQUEL views to use the faster SQL Query Engine (SQE), add flexibility with run-time variables and output options, and create and distribute results with a whole new look.

 

It takes just seconds to convert your existing queries and begin using SEQUEL to perform data manipulation and reporting tasks far beyond the abilities of Query/400. For example, being able to add run-time prompts, drill down into results, run data from an icon (e.g., shortcut), use conditional logic, convert dates, create colorful charts and graphs, design custom dashboards, import data into Excel, and share reports via email.

Additionally, with SEQUEL You Can…

  • Display data from multiple interfaces: a 5250 session ("green-screen"), PCs, web browsers, and mobile devices

  • Email/save results in a variety of output options (Excel, PDF, etc.)

  • Summarize important business metrics with dashboards

  • Perform drill-down analysis to analyze data more effectively

  • Pivot (slice and dice) data for added insight

  • Graph data on the fly for unique visual analysis

  • Consolidate several queries into a single SEQUEL view

  • Easily schedule SEQUEL jobs to run automatically and regularly

  • Run SEQUEL commands from a variety of user interfaces

Import Existing Queries in Seconds

SEQUEL allows for quick and easy import and conversion of your existing queries into SEQUEL objects (a view or report). Whether you have one Query/400 query or thousands of them, the SEQUEL convert query option can import the definitions from either a command line or a graphical interface. By converting and consolidating your Query objects into SEQUEL objects, you can move your users away from green-screen reports and instantly modernize the look of your IBM i (AS/400, System i, iSeries) data. Accelerate the time it takes to get key information to the business users and improve overall performance, while giving them the ability to quickly access data in a whole new way from a graphical interface, a browser, or a mobile device.

Easily Empower the End User

Virtually anyone can use SEQUEL because it accommodates users at any level. They can interact with data in ways that allow them to make confident business decisions quickly, via options like pivoting, drill analysis, run-time prompts, dashboards, and more.

 

For your more-technical users, or power users with the ability to design queries, ViewPoint's simple graphical interface provides templates, auto-joins, and design wizards to facilitate the creation of views and reports.

Increase Programmer Productivity

For the programmer, SEQUEL saves you money by saving you time. Using SEQUEL is much faster than writing programs. For example, an RPG report program might take four or five hours to create and compile. Using SEQUEL, the same report could take 45 minutes and require no compiling.

Give Developers and Administrators Security and Control

You can still control data-access levels with SEQUEL because it conforms to the security you set up through your OS object level. Your objects are stored on the IBM i system, giving IT the ability to control the way SEQUEL is accessed and used. In addition, SEQUEL supplements system-object security and allows you to restrict users from the libraries, files, or fields you designate, while featuring an auditing functionality that allows you to know who is accessing your data.

 

With SEQUEL, you can securely provide data access, analysis, and business intelligence capabilities for users throughout your enterprise.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Don't let a library of useful but outdated queries stop you from modernizing how you deliver your data. Convert your existing Query/400 queries with SEQUEL and take advantage of SEQUEL's increased processing power, user-friendly interface, and exceptional customer support. Try SEQUEL free for 30 days and deliver the modern reports that your end users have been asking for.

 

Heath Kath

Heath Kath is a Technical Solutions Consultant specializing in business intelligence, data access and analysis, and report distribution. Heath is a Robot and IBM Certified Specialist with more than 20 years of System i experience, including 11 years at IBM working in product support, testing, software support, and training. His background includes CL and RPG programming, Query/400, Query Manager, SQL, and journaling. Heath hosts a bi-weekly webinar for business intelligence products and provides technical support for new customers.

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