
This page lists the tools that help you access, analyze, and share data across the university. Whether you’re running routine reports, monitoring key metrics, or building dashboards for decision‑making, these tools support reliable access to information that drives planning and operational efficiency.
Explore the resources below to find the best options for generating reports, viewing real‑time data, and supporting strategic analysis across campus.
Please note that some tools are approved and supported as enterprise technologies, while others may require additional or department‑specific licensing. Please contact your department’s BRM for details and to begin a request.
Tableau
Tableau is a leading data visualization and analytics platform that helps users turn complex data into clear, interactive dashboards and visual insights. With its drag‑and‑drop interface and ability to connect to spreadsheets, databases, and cloud data sources, Tableau makes it easy for teams to explore information, identify trends, and share findings securely across the organization.
Key Benefits
- Connects to spreadsheets, databases, and cloud platforms for unified analysis
- Builds interactive dashboards with an intuitive drag‑and‑drop interface
- Supports real‑time insights through live data connections and automatic updates
Argos
Argos is an enterprise reporting and data‑access platform that allows you to transform raw data into clear, actionable insights through dashboards, ad‑hoc queries, and customizable reports. With support for real‑time data, multiple data sources, and both cloud and on‑premise environments, Argos gives departments across campus reliable access to the information they need without depending on technical staff for every request.
Key Benefits
- Connects campus data systems into a centralized, governed reporting environment
- Delivers timely insights through real‑time data access
- Enhances security with permissions, access controls, and audit logs
SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS)
SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) is Microsoft’s on‑premises reporting platform for creating, managing, and delivering paginated, fixed‑layout reports across an organization. It supports rich data connections, including SQL Server, Analysis Services, Oracle, MySQL, and other relational sources, and enables teams to build highly formatted reports such as tables, charts, statements, invoices, and operational summaries. SSRS provides both technical and non‑technical users with the ability to design and distribute structured, reliable reports at scale.
Key Benefits
- Connects to major relational data sources for unified reporting
- Supports consistent, print‑friendly paginated reports
- Enables users of all skill levels to design reports with built‑in tools
Banner
Banner is Liberty University’s resource planning system that provides centralized data management for student records, finance, HR, financial aid, and other institutional operations. As a reporting tool, Banner stores institutional data in integrated modules and supports robust reporting across departments through built‑in reports, data extracts, and connections to external reporting platforms. This ensures Liberty has access to accurate, consistent and real‑time information.
Key Benefits
- Supports up‑to‑date reporting through modules that refresh as transactions occur
- Centralizes key institutional data across major administrative systems
- Provides reporting tools and extracts for regulatory and operational needs
Power BI
Power BI is a business intelligence and data visualization platform from Microsoft that enables you to analyze data and create interactive reports and dashboards. With seamless integration across Microsoft tools and the ability to connect to a wide range of data sources, Power BI helps teams transform raw data into meaningful insights and share them securely across the organization.
Key Benefits
- Connects to spreadsheets, databases, and cloud data sources
- Builds interactive reports and dashboards with ease
- Delivers timely insights through refreshes and secure sharing
Swiper
Swiper is Liberty University’s web‑based attendance‑tracking system that records student check‑ins at events, classrooms, locations, and scheduled appointments. Designed to run in a browser with no additional software installation, Swiper captures real‑time attendance data using a card reader or manual lookup. Swiper provides reliable, structured attendance data that supports decision‑making, resource planning, and service improvement across campus.
Key Benefits
- Captures attendance instantly via browser scanning or manual lookup
- Integrates with Tableau for analysis of volume, timing, demographics, and event activity
- Shows trends in traffic, engagement, and student group behavior