What we’re looking at here is the development process for creating an interactive dashboard. Step 1: Data Source Tier Identify your compliant data source(s). Step 2: Connectivity Tier Identify and develop your connectivity methods. Step 3: Visualization Tier Use Xcelsius point and click methodology to create visual models. Step 4: Visual Model Deploy SWF file to portals, website, PowerPoint or other publishing options. RUNTIME: You have now created a stand-alone model that connects directly to your database without passing through Xcelsius, or other application! Visual models connect directly to the data source via XML data feeds or Web services.