If you're specifically looking for workarounds to eliminate the need for joined reports in Salesforce, the platform has its own set of unique tools and features that can be leveraged. Here's a Salesforce-centric adaptation:
1. Custom Objects & Fields
Create custom objects or fields to consolidate the necessary information from different objects, which can then be reported on without the need for joins.
2. Reports with Master-Detail and Lookup Relationships
Leverage the built-in relationships between objects in Salesforce. Reports built on objects with master-detail or lookup relationships can pull fields from both the primary object and related objects without requiring a joined report.
3.Formula Fields
Use formula fields to calculate or derive values based on data from related records. This way, you can display combined or computed data directly in a report.
4. Roll-up Summary Fields
In master-detail relationships, use roll-up summary fields on the master object to aggregate data from the detail records.
5. Apex & Visualforce
If standard reporting can't achieve what you need, consider creating custom solutions with Apex and Visualforce to generate the desired reports.
6. External Data with Salesforce Connect
If some of your data resides outside Salesforce, consider using Salesforce Connect to integrate external data sources. This allows you to create reports directly in Salesforce without having to import the data.
7. Utilize Einstein Analytics (Tableau CRM)
Einstein Analytics (now part of Tableau CRM) offers more advanced data blending and visualization capabilities than standard Salesforce reports. It allows you to integrate data from multiple sources, both inside and outside Salesforce.
10. AppExchange Solutions:
Explore the Salesforce AppExchange for reporting and dashboard tools that might offer the functionalities you need without requiring joined reports.
11. Flow
Automate data consolidation using Salesforce Flow. For instance, when a record is updated, you can automatically update or aggregate data in another related record, reducing the need for joins in reports.
12. Use External Tools Such As Power BI
Remember, the method you choose should align with your specific needs, the complexity of your Salesforce org, and your available resources. Always consider the implications, such as added complexity or potential data skew, when implementing custom solutions.