Definition
A Reporting Snapshot Target Object is the specific custom object that an administrator designates to store the data captured by a Reporting Snapshot (also called Analytic Snapshot). When a Reporting Snapshot runs on its defined schedule, it takes a point-in-time snapshot of a source report's data and maps each report column to a corresponding field on the target custom object, creating one new record per report row. Over time, the target object accumulates historical records, enabling trend analysis and historical comparisons through reports and dashboards built on the target object's data.
Real-World Example
a data analyst at MarketPulse uses Reporting Snapshot Target Object to uncover trends and patterns hidden in their CRM data. By configuring Reporting Snapshot Target Object, they create visualizations that tell a clear story about business performance. The executive team uses these insights to adjust strategy mid-quarter and the company exceeds its revenue target by 12%.
Why Reporting Snapshot Target Object Matters
A Reporting Snapshot Target Object is the specific custom object that an administrator designates to store the data captured by a Reporting Snapshot (also called Analytic Snapshot). When a Reporting Snapshot runs on its defined schedule, it takes a point-in-time snapshot of a source report's data and maps each report column to a corresponding field on the target custom object, creating one new record per report row.
Over time, the target object accumulates historical records, enabling trend analysis and historical comparisons through reports and dashboards built on the target object's data. Target object design is important: field types must match the source report column types, field names should be meaningful, and the object should be designed for reporting use rather than operational use. Mature snapshot implementations have dedicated target objects with clear names indicating their purpose.
How Organizations Use Reporting Snapshot Target Object
- •TrueNorth Software — Created dedicated target objects for each snapshot purpose, with clear naming for easy identification.
- •BrightEdge Solutions — Designs target object field types to match source report columns for clean data.
- •Cobalt Ventures — Maintains target objects purely for snapshot data, not operational use.