User Guides
Comprehensive guides for different types of users working with OpenMRS reports.
The OpenMRS Reporting Module serves different users with varying needs and technical expertise. These user guides provide role-specific instructions to help you work effectively with reports, whether you're running existing reports or building new ones.
Choose Your Guide
👤 For End Users (Report Runners)
Who this is for: Clinicians, data analysts, program coordinators, and managers who need to run existing reports but don't create or modify them.
What you'll learn:
How to access and run reports
Understanding different report types and output formats
Working with parameters (dates, locations, filters)
Interpreting results and troubleshooting common issues
Using report analysis tools for tracking trends
Time investment: 15-30 minutes to get started, reference as needed
🏗️ For Report Builders (Implementers)
Who this is for: Data managers, system administrators, implementers, and technical users who need to create, modify, and maintain reports.
What you'll learn:
Building reports from scratch using the web interface
Creating cohort queries, indicators, and dimensions
Working with parameters and advanced features
Best practices for performance and maintainability
Testing and validation strategies
Time investment: 1-2 hours for basics, ongoing reference for advanced features
👉 Go to Report Builder Guide →
Quick Decision Guide
Not sure which guide you need? Answer these questions:
Do you need to run existing reports?
View patient lists or summary statistics?
Generate monthly/quarterly reports for management?
Export data for analysis or government reporting?
→ You need the End User Guide
Do you need to create or modify reports?
Build new reports for your organization?
Customize existing reports for different needs?
Set up automated report generation?
→ You need the Report Builder Guide
Do you need both?
Many users start as report runners and eventually need to build their own reports. You can start with the End User Guide and progress to the Report Builder Guide as your needs evolve.
Getting Started Tips
For End Users
Start simple - Try running a basic patient list report first
Learn your data - Understand what data is available in your system
Practice with dates - Date ranges are the most common source of confusion
Save your settings - Keep notes on commonly used parameters
For Report Builders
Plan before building - Clearly define what your report should accomplish
Start with tutorials - Follow the step-by-step guides before attempting custom reports
Test thoroughly - Always validate results with known data
Document everything - Future you (and your colleagues) will thank you
Related Guides
System Administration - Installing and configuring the Reporting Module
Report Builder Documentation - Building reports programmatically
Advanced Features - SQL data sets, custom renderers, and automation
Ready to get started? Choose your guide above and begin your journey with OpenMRS reporting!