Running User
In Salesforce dashboards and reporting snapshots, the user whose data access permissions determine what records are included in the results, allowing a dashboard to show data from a single perspective regardless of who views it.
Definition
In Salesforce dashboards and reporting snapshots, the user whose data access permissions determine what records are included in the results, allowing a dashboard to show data from a single perspective regardless of who views it.
In plain English
“The Running User in Salesforce dashboards and reporting snapshots is the user whose data access permissions determine what records are included in the results. It lets you show data from one perspective regardless of who's actually viewing the dashboard, like 'show this dashboard as if I'm the VP of Sales'.”
Worked example
When a CRM manager at Summit Group needs to streamline operations, they turn to Running User to centralize important business data in one place. With Running User configured to match their workflow, the team can quickly find relevant information, track changes over time, and generate reports that drive strategic decisions.
Why Running User matters
In Salesforce dashboards and reporting snapshots, the Running User is the user whose data access permissions determine what records are included in the results, allowing a dashboard to show data from a single perspective regardless of who views it. This is important because viewers may have different data access; the running user normalizes the view across viewers.
Running user selection has significant implications for what dashboard viewers see. Choosing a high-level running user (like a CEO) shows comprehensive data; choosing a specific manager shows their team's view. Dynamic dashboards let viewers see data from their own perspective rather than a fixed running user. Mature dashboard programs choose running users thoughtfully based on the dashboard's purpose and audience.
How organizations use Running User
Uses high-level running users for executive dashboards to show comprehensive views.
Uses dynamic dashboards for personalized perspectives where viewers see their own data.
Documents running user selection as part of dashboard governance.
🧠 Test your knowledge
Q1. What is a Running User?
Q2. Why does running user matter?
Q3. What's an alternative for personalized views?
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