.png)
Overview
Dashboards in FORWARD Direct provide a visual way to understand how your program is performing. You can design dashboards with multiple pages, apply filters, and add charts or summary cards that reflect application and award data. Dashboards open in Preview mode by default, allowing you to review published data before switching to Edit mode to make changes.
When Should I Use This?
Use dashboards when you need to:
Monitor application volume, status, or trends over time
Review award totals or application metrics at a glance
Share program insights with funders or external partners using a public link
Organize program data into pages such as Overview, Awards, or Map views
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Open the Dashboard
Navigate to the Dashboard area of your program.
The dashboard opens in Preview mode by default.
2. Switch to Edit Mode
Click the Preview Toggle to switch from Preview mode to Edit mode.
Edit mode allows you to build and modify dashboard content.
3. Select or Add a Page
In the left menu, review existing Pages (auto-created templates include Overview, Awards, and Map).
Click Add Page to create a new page.
In Page Settings (right sidebar), update the Page Name and add a Description if needed.
If appropriate, enable Public Page to make the page visible in the public dashboard view.
4. Customize Page Design
In Page Settings, adjust:
Section Default Color
Text Default Color
Chart Default Color
5. Add a Section to the Canvas
In the Dashboard Canvas, click + Add Section.
Click inside the new section.
Choose to add Chart, Text, or create Columns.
Note: Once a section is added, it cannot be deleted individually. The entire section must be deleted.
6. Add and Configure a Chart
Click inside a section and select Chart.
In the left sidebar:
Choose the Chart Type (Bar Chart, Pie Chart, Line Chart, Table, or Map).
Under Data, select one dimension from the dropdown. Dimensions use the Friendly Name defined in the form under Reporting.
Under Labels, add a Title, Y-Axis Title, and X-Axis Title.
Under Design, select a chart color scheme.
7. Add Summary Cards or Text
From the left menu, you can add:
Application Sum Card for application-related metrics (such as submitted or approved).
Value Sum Card for award value metrics.
To add text:
Select Text.
Choose Heading or Description.
Apply a color theme as needed.
8. Use Filters
Use the Filter control in the toolbar to refine data:
Date: Filter by start date and/or end date.
State: Filter by application status.
9. Review and Publish
Switch back to Preview mode to review how the dashboard will appear.
Click Publish to apply and save all edits to the live dashboard.
10. Share the Dashboard (Optional)
Use Copy Public URL to generate a shareable link.
Note: This makes the dashboard publicly searchable on the web and viewable without portal access.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting to switch from Preview mode to Edit mode before making changes
Adding a section without confirming its placement, since sections cannot be deleted individually
Selecting more than one dimension for a chart, which is not supported
Publishing without previewing recent changes
Best Practices for FORWARD Direct Users
Use the auto-created pages (Overview, Awards, Map) as a starting point when possible
Confirm Friendly Names are correctly set in the form under Reporting before building charts
Preview dashboards before publishing to ensure data displays as expected
Clearly name pages and add descriptions to improve clarity for viewers
FAQ
What mode does the dashboard open in by default?
Dashboards always open in Preview mode, showing the most recent published version.
What is the difference between Preview mode and Edit mode?
Preview mode shows how the dashboard appears when published. Edit mode allows you to build and modify dashboard content.
Can I delete a section once it’s added?
Individual components cannot be deleted from a section. To remove it, you must delete the entire section.
Can others view the dashboard without portal access?
Yes. Using Copy Public URL creates a public link that can be viewed without portal access and is searchable on the web.