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Service Description

The Cognos Analytics service allows users to run reports on data held within the University's corporate databases such as Finance, Human Resources and the Student System (Banner).  In addition, the ability of Cognos Analytics to link to a wide range of data sources is being used to facilitate reporting of other data stores, such as the Research Management Worktribe system.

Planning Analytics expands upon this service by offering multidimensional data exploration, scenario modelling and forecasting and advanced planning and budgeting tools.

Both Cognos Analytics and Planning Analytics use a web interface that requires users to login by using their eCode and network password. There are plans to move to Single Sign-On (SSO) login in late 2026.

Access to databases and reports is controlled by the software which defines the categories and reports (for example, faculty/department) a user, based upon group membership, may access.

Business Process

Accessing Cognos Analytics

  • Users wishing to apply for access to Business Intelligence Reporting tools must do so by utilising the University's A3M System for permission to access the particular corporate database reports.
  • An authoriser, usually the staff member's line manager or department director, will approve access to the identified database and report suites.
  • When access is granted, you will be able to access the identified reports.
  • Training and support associated with the features of Cognos is facilitated via the authoriser and is the responsibility of your department.

Supporting Materials

Business Intelligence SharePoint site (Use this for more information regarding our BI services)

Acceptable Use Code of Practice (Ulster University Information and Communication Equipment and Telephony)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my credentials not working?

  • To log in to Cognos Analytics, you need to use your eCode (for example, e1234567) and network password. Your network password is the same password that you use for your University Microsoft account.

  • On rare occasions, your Cognos password can be out of sync with your network password, in which case you are advised to reset your password using the Self-Help Password Reset link. Once your password is reset, remember to follow procedures for reconfiguring Eduroam (see Eduroam FAQs) or your AD account might become locked.

    • Why do I not see any data in Team Content?

  • Usually this is because you have not been approved through the A3M system to view reports. Please note, if you have not used Cognos in more than 12 months, you may need to submit a new A3M request.

    • Course Results Sheets – when I submit a program code, why am I receiving an error?

  • After entering the program code, wait 10-15 seconds before hitting enter or selecting search.

    • How to obtain help

    How to contact the Service Desk

    Service Desk Hours

    Opening Hours

    Monday - Friday 8am - 8pm
    Saturday – Sunday 1.30pm – 5pm

    Extended Closure - Easter and Christmas Holidays

    View Extended Closure Service Desk Hours

    Eligibility

    All University Staff members may apply for access to corporate information via the A3M  System.

    Service Owner

    ICT Application Delivery