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In June 2004, nFold released the results of a quick telephone survey conducted to determine what software is used by asset managers to create quarterly reports for their clients. These reports typically contain graphs and commentary that has been customised for each of the larger institutional clients. 13 asset management companies participated in the survey.
How are reports produced?
By far the most popular solution was some form of custom process, often created in-house.
What software is used in the process?
In most cases a spreadsheet (such as MS Excel) or database (such as MS Access) formed part of the solution. Core systems AFA and HiPort were mentioned as part of the process by 9 of the 13 participants. Only 4 companies use some form of reporting software. Several companies use DTP software (such as Pagemaker or Corel Draw) to format reports. Others use MS Word for formatting and layout.
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In what format are reports delivered to clients?
The most popular format for delivery of the reports is Adobe’s PDF electronic file format. In almost half of the companies who participated, hard copies are sent out to clients as a matter of course, unless the PDF format is especially requested by the client.
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