Definition
The Salesforce user whose permissions and data access determine which records are included when a Reporting Snapshot runs, similar to how a dashboard running user controls the data scope.
Real-World Example
the analytics lead at SilverLine Corp recently implemented Reporting Snapshot Running User to build a comprehensive view of key business metrics. With Reporting Snapshot Running User in place, stakeholders across the organization can self-serve their data needs, filtering and drilling down into the numbers without filing requests with the analytics team.
Why Reporting Snapshot Running User Matters
The Reporting Snapshot Running User is the Salesforce user whose permissions and data access determine which records are included when a Reporting Snapshot runs, similar to how a dashboard running user controls the data scope. The running user's visibility defines what the snapshot sees: records they can view get captured, records they can't see don't.
Choosing the running user matters significantly for snapshot data quality. A running user with limited access produces limited snapshots; a running user with broad access produces comprehensive snapshots. Mature orgs choose running users thoughtfully, typically selecting users with the appropriate scope of visibility for the analytical question being answered. Security concerns also matter: running users should not grant inappropriate data exposure through snapshots.
How Organizations Use Reporting Snapshot Running User
- •TrueNorth Software — Uses service account users with broad read access as running users for comprehensive snapshots.
- •BrightEdge Solutions — Matches running user scope to the analytical question being answered.
- •Cobalt Ventures — Documents running user selection rationale for each snapshot as part of governance.