11.1 Account Mapping - Overview

When connecting to a system designed to facilitate the reporting process, such as an EPM system (e.g., HFM, Essbase, or OneStream), an account is typically created for each item requiring reporting. Once connected, accounts can be directly linked to report objects through drag-and-drop functionality.

Conversely, when connecting to systems primarily oriented toward a company's operational activities, like an ERP system, mapping multiple individual accounts to a single report object is often necessary. In such cases, a direct connection alone may not be feasible, and a mapping mechanism must be employed.

Report Authority's account mapping functionality serves as a versatile conduit through which data from one or more external sources can undergo various mapping and filtering operations. These operations include:

1. Mapping Multiple Accounts to a Single Item: This process allows the consolidation of multiple accounts into a node, which can then be used to automate items on the report.
2. Filtering Trial Balance Rows: Specific sub-accounts or dimension members can be used to further filter the results to include only designated elements. This capability enables the categorisation of accounts by parameters like cost centres, product codes, geography, or any other dimension present in the trial balance.
3. Combining Data from Multiple Connections: It's possible to merge data from different sources. For example, you can connect to raw trial balance data while also combining it with a dataset of adjustments.

As of today, this account mapping functionality can be used with the Excel or NetSuite adapter, but future versions may expand its compatibility to include other adaptors.

Mapping Panel

The mapping panel comprises two main sections:

1. Chart of Accounts (Left Side): This section displays all the accounts and sub-accounts/dimension members from the source system. It also features a "Mapped To" column indicating the account mapping item it is mapped to in the hierarchy on the right.
2. Account Mapping Hierarchy (Right Side): On the right, you'll find hierarchies representing the items that are meant to appear on the face of the report. A separate hierarchy is created for each dimension. These hierarchies are replicated in the Automation panel and can be easily dragged and dropped onto the report.

For example, if you drag the "License Revenue" node onto the report, the software will calculate the total balances for accounts 1000 and 1001. If you drag and drop the "Revenue" node onto the report, the software will calculate the total balances for accounts 1000, 1001, 1002, and 1003.