What is the first step in creating a report?

The first step in creating a report is to identify the data. This step is crucial because the type of report you want to generate largely depends on the data you need to include. By pinpointing the specific data points, metrics, and dimensions that are relevant to your reporting objectives, you lay the foundation for the entire report-building process. Understanding what data is required allows you to determine the appropriate report categories and formats. It also enables accurate configuration of filters and criteria that will guide the data retrieval process. Without a clear understanding of the data required, the subsequent steps in the report creation process cannot be effectively executed, leading to potential misalignment between the report's content and the users' informational needs.