Why does my exported report not match what I see in the dashboard?
Learn why exported reports may differ from dashboard data in MerchantSpring and how to correctly compare them.
It is relatively common for exported reports in MerchantSpring to show slightly different results compared to what you see in the dashboard. In most cases, this does not indicate incorrect data, but rather differences in how the data is displayed, grouped, or processed at the time of export.
Dashboards in MerchantSpring are interactive and often apply filters, groupings, and calculated views dynamically. Exports, on the other hand, are typically generated as structured datasets, which may present the same underlying data in a different format or level of detail.
Why This Happens
Filters and View Settings
Dashboards may have filters applied (such as product groups, channels, or date ranges) that are not carried over exactly into the export. Even small differences in filters can result in different totals.
Aggregation vs Raw Data
Dashboard views often display aggregated metrics (e.g. totals by product or channel), while exports may include:
-
row-level data
-
transaction-level entries
-
multiple rows per product
This can make the export appear larger or different, even though totals align.
Timing and Data Refresh
If a dashboard is still updating or cached, and an export is generated from a more recent dataset, the two may not match exactly at that moment.
Grouping Differences
Dashboards may group data differently (e.g. by ASIN, product group, or campaign), while exports may flatten this structure.
Steps to Investigate
- Confirm the same date range is selected
- Check that all filters match exactly
- Identify whether the dashboard is showing aggregated vs detailed data
- Compare totals, not individual rows
- Refresh the dashboard and re-export if needed
Notes / Caveats / Tips
- Small differences are normal and expected
- Exports often provide more granular detail than dashboards
- Always compare data at the same level (e.g. totals vs totals)