Ignition Reporting: Scheduled and On-Demand Reports
Key Takeaway
How to create, schedule, and distribute PDF, HTML, and CSV reports in Ignition using the Reporting module with tag history, SQL data sources, and script datasets.
Quick Answer
The Ignition Reporting module generates formatted PDF, HTML, or CSV reports using data from tag history, SQL queries, and scripted datasets. Reports can run on a schedule (daily, weekly, shift-based), on demand via operator action, or triggered by tag events.
Report Design
Reports are designed in the Ignition Designer using a visual layout editor. Key elements include:
- Data Sources — Tag history queries, named SQL queries, or Python scripts that return datasets
- Tables — Dynamic tables that expand based on row count, with grouping, sorting, and subtotals
- Charts — Time-series trends, bar charts, and pie charts from historical data
- Parameters — Dynamic date ranges, site selectors, and filter values passed at runtime
Scheduling and Distribution
Reports can be scheduled in the gateway to run at fixed intervals or triggered by tag value changes. Distribution options include email (SMTP), file system save, FTP upload, and network share. Each schedule entry specifies the report name, parameters, output format, and distribution target.
Common Report Types
- Daily Production Summary — Aggregate well production volumes, uptime, and alarm counts
- Shift Handoff Report — Key events, alarm summaries, and operator notes from the outgoing shift
- Regulatory Compliance — Emission monitoring data, calibration logs, and measurement verification for LACT units
- Equipment Runtime — Pump, compressor, and motor run-hours for maintenance scheduling
Frequently Asked Questions
Ignition's Reporting module generates PDF, HTML, and CSV output. PDF is the most common format for email distribution and archival. CSV is used for data export to spreadsheets and BI tools.
Yes. Reports can be scheduled in the gateway to run at fixed intervals — daily, weekly, monthly, or on a custom cron-like schedule. Scheduled reports can be automatically emailed, saved to disk, or uploaded via FTP.