Glossary of Common Terms

This glossary explains common terms and concepts you'll encounter when using the three applications. Terms are organized alphabetically for easy reference.

A

API (Application Programming Interface) A way for different software applications to communicate with each other. In our system, APIs allow Sagacity, Bridge, and Lift to share data automatically.

Application A software program designed to help users accomplish specific tasks. Our system includes three main applications: Sagacity, Bridge, and Lift.

Authentication The process of verifying who you are when you log in. This usually involves entering your username and password.

Authorization Determining what you're allowed to do after you log in. Different users have different permissions based on their role.

B

Backup A copy of your data stored safely in case the original is lost or damaged. Our system automatically creates backups to protect your information.

Bridge The application that connects different systems and moves data between them. Think of it as a translator that helps applications understand each other.

Browser The software you use to access web applications (like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge). All three applications work through your web browser.

C

Cache Temporary storage that helps applications load faster. Sometimes clearing your browser cache can fix problems with applications not updating properly.

Cloud Computing services delivered over the internet. Our applications are hosted in the cloud, which means you can access them from anywhere with internet.

Cookie Small files stored by your browser that remember your login status and preferences. Cookies are necessary for single sign-on to work properly.

CSV (Comma-Separated Values) A simple file format for storing data in rows and columns. You can export data from our applications in CSV format to use in Excel or other programs.

D

Dashboard A screen that displays important information at a glance, often with charts, graphs, and key metrics. Each application has dashboards showing relevant data.

Data Flow The movement of information through systems. In our case, data typically flows from Sagacity through Bridge to Lift.

Data Processing The work done to clean, organize, and prepare raw data for analysis. Sagacity handles most of the data processing in our system.

Data Synchronization Keeping information consistent across multiple applications. When data changes in one place, synchronization ensures it updates everywhere else.

E

Encryption A security method that scrambles data to protect it from unauthorized access. All our applications use encryption to keep your information safe.

Export Downloading data from an application to save or use in another program. Most reports and data can be exported to Excel or PDF formats.

Error Message Text that appears when something goes wrong. Error messages help identify problems and often suggest solutions.

F

Filter A tool that shows only specific data based on criteria you set. For example, filtering a report to show only last month's sales.

Firewall Security software that protects systems from unauthorized access. Your organization likely has firewalls protecting the applications.

G

GUI (Graphical User Interface) The visual elements you interact with in an application - buttons, menus, forms, etc. It's what makes software easy to use without typing commands.

H

HTTP/HTTPS Protocols used for web communication. HTTPS is the secure version that encrypts data. All our applications use HTTPS for security.

I

Integration Connecting different systems so they work together seamlessly. Our three applications are integrated to share data and functionality.

Interface The point where you interact with an application - the screens, buttons, and menus you see and use.

J

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) A format for storing and transmitting data. You might see JSON mentioned in technical documentation, but you don't need to understand it to use the applications.

K

Key Performance Indicator (KPI) An important metric that shows how well something is performing. Dashboards often display KPIs to help you understand business performance.

L

Lift The application that provides dashboards and management tools. It's where you'll see visual reports and control various aspects of the system.

Load Balancing A technical method that distributes work across multiple servers to ensure good performance. This happens automatically behind the scenes.

Login Credentials Your username and password used to access the applications. Keep these secure and don't share them with others.

M

Metadata Information about data - like when it was created, who modified it, or what format it's in. The system uses metadata to manage and organize information.

Migration Moving data from one system to another. This might happen when upgrading systems or consolidating information.

N

Navigation Moving around within an application using menus, links, and buttons. Good navigation helps you find what you need quickly.

Network The system of connected computers that allows applications to communicate. Network issues can cause applications to run slowly or disconnect.

O

Offline Not connected to the internet or network. Most features require an online connection to work properly.

Online Connected to the internet or network. You need to be online to use the applications and access current data.

P

Password Reset The process of creating a new password when you forget your current one. Use the "Forgot Password" links on login screens.

Permissions Rules that determine what you can see and do in the applications. Your administrator sets permissions based on your role.

Portal A web page that serves as a starting point for accessing multiple applications or resources. You might use a portal to reach all three applications.

Q

Query A request for specific information from a database. You might create queries to find particular data or generate custom reports.

Queue A line of tasks waiting to be processed. Data processing jobs often wait in queues during busy periods.

R

Real-time Information that updates immediately as changes occur. Many dashboards show real-time data so you always see current information.

Report A formatted presentation of data, often including charts, tables, and analysis. You can generate reports from any of the applications.

Role Your position or function in the organization, which determines what you can access and do in the applications.

S

Sagacity The application that collects and processes data. It's the starting point where raw information becomes useful, organized data.

Server A computer that provides services to other computers. Our applications run on servers hosted in secure data centers.

Session The period from when you log in until you log out. Sessions automatically end after periods of inactivity for security.

Single Sign-On (SSO) A system that lets you log in once to access multiple applications. You can move between Sagacity, Bridge, and Lift without logging in repeatedly.

Synchronization See "Data Synchronization" above. The process of keeping information consistent across systems.

T

Timeout When a session ends automatically due to inactivity. You'll need to log in again after a timeout occurs.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) An extra security step that requires a second form of identification (like a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.

U

Upload Transferring files or data from your computer to an application. You might upload files to process or analyze.

URL (Uniform Resource Locator) The web address used to access a specific page or application. Each application has its own URL.

User Interface (UI) The visual elements and controls you use to interact with an application. A good UI makes applications easy and intuitive to use.

V

VPN (Virtual Private Network) A secure connection that protects data traveling over the internet. Your organization might require VPN access for security.

W

Workflow A series of steps or processes that accomplish a task. Our integrated applications support efficient workflows by connecting related activities.

Workspace Your personalized area within an application where you can organize tools, reports, and information relevant to your work.

X

XML (Extensible Markup Language) A format for storing and transmitting structured data. Like JSON, this is a technical format you don't need to understand to use the applications.

Common Phrases and Concepts

"The system is down" Applications are not accessible, usually due to maintenance or technical problems.

"Data hasn't synced" Information in one application doesn't match what's shown in another, usually resolved by waiting or refreshing.

"I'm logged out" Your session has ended, either due to inactivity timeout or manual logout. Simply log back in to continue.

"The page won't load" Usually a temporary issue with internet connection or browser. Try refreshing or checking your network connection.

"I don't have permission" You're trying to access something your user role doesn't allow. Contact your administrator if you need additional access.

"Data is processing" The system is working on organizing or analyzing information. This may take some time depending on the amount of data.

"Real-time updates" Information changes immediately when the underlying data changes, without needing to refresh your screen.

"Scheduled maintenance" Planned downtime when the system is temporarily unavailable for updates or improvements.

This glossary covers the most common terms you'll encounter. If you come across unfamiliar terms not listed here, don't hesitate to ask your administrator or check the detailed documentation for each application.