Compare Analytics and Flex Modes

A quick comparison of how Analytics and Flex Modes differ in functionality and workflow.

Flex Modes does not yet support all Analytics features. For example, you cannot add Flex Modes content to a dashboard yet.

Analytics is the established module for building structured analysis in Phocas. It provides several predefined modes, and when you want to customize the layout, you switch to Custom mode.

Flex Modes documentation covers a newer module designed to make analysis more direct and flexible. It makes customization part of the default workflow, so you work directly in the grid as you explore your data.

Build and adjust your analysis

Both modules provide predefined modes and let you build your own views using dimensions, measures, and calculations. The main difference is how you customize and interact with the grid.

Custom mode in Analytics

Analytics has predefined modes, and Custom mode is the path when you want to tailor the grid layout. It's suited to structured, repeatable analysis where the layout and column logic are carefully defined in advance.

Creating or updating a view in Custom mode follows a structured setup process. You open a dedicated configuration window, add and configure columns, then apply the changes to update the grid.

Flex Modes

Flex Modes is designed for a more exploratory workflow. The grid itself becomes the workspace, so you can add measures, bring in data from different streams, and create calculations directly in context. Changes happen immediately, making it easier to refine your view and explore different perspectives without interrupting your workflow.

Flex Modes also removes some of the structural limitations of Analytics. For example, you can combine data from multiple streams in a single grid and create calculations more freely, without switching to a separate setup mode.

Move from summary to transactions

Transaction mode is available in Analytics for more detailed transaction-level work. It is typically used to search for specific transactions or export transaction-level data, rather than to explore summary analysis.

Flex Modes changes how you move between summary data and transaction detail. See the Flex Modes documentation for the current workflow.