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Golden Software Help
Overview
Golden (by Benthic Software) is a query and reporting tool used to run Oracle SQL queries against Southern Illinois University’s Administrative Information System (AIS). Approved users can use Golden to retrieve financial and administrative data and export the results into usable formats such as Microsoft Excel.
This article provides an overview of Golden, outlines access requirements, and points you to official installation instructions, usage guidance, and password management resources.
Eligibility
Golden access is restricted due to the sensitive nature of AIS data.
- Users must have approved Reporting (RPT) database access
- Access requests require supervisor approval and routing through Accounting Services
- Departments are responsible for purchasing and licensing the Golden software
Access Requirements
Before you can use Golden, all three of the following requirements must be met:
1. Reporting (RPT) Database Access
Golden connects to the RPT database, which is a daily copy of AIS.
- Submit the Request for Reporting Access (RPT) form via SIU eForms
- Select the appropriate access level (e.g., All Financials)
- Requests for HR or Accounts Payable data require additional review
- Accounting Services routes the request for approval and notifies you when access is granted
2. Oracle Client Installation
Golden requires the Oracle 11 Client to communicate with the AIS/RPT databases.
- The Oracle Client must be installed and configured before Golden will work
- For assistance installing Oracle, please refer to our SIU VPN Guide.
3. Golden Software Purchase and Installation
- Golden must be purchased directly from Benthic Software
- Departments are responsible for managing licenses
- Install the latest 32‑bit version of Golden
- Accept default settings during installation
First‑time setup steps are provided in Appendix B of the Golden FAQ document.
Using Golden
Once installed and configured, Golden allows you to:
- Open and run Oracle SQL scripts
- View results in the query output grid
- Export query results directly to Microsoft Excel
SQL Scripts
Golden runs queries using Oracle SQL scripts (.sql files).
- Scripts are available from the SQL User’s Group website
- Most users should run prebuilt scripts without modification
- Editing scripts requires working knowledge of Oracle SQL
Incorrect changes can cause scripts to fail or return inaccurate data.
Exporting Data to Excel
Golden includes a built‑in export feature:
- Query results can be exported directly to Microsoft Excel
- Data can then be filtered, calculated, or formatted as needed
Note: Excel must not be actively editing a cell during export, or an error may occur
Password Changes
Golden uses the same credentials as AIS and RPT.
- AIS and RPT passwords are synchronized during the nightly database copy
- When prompted that your password has expired, the password must be updated through Golden
- Changing your password here does not affect your ability to log in to AIS through the web portal
Detailed, step‑by‑step password change instructions are included on page 8 of the Golden FAQ document. Users should follow those steps exactly to avoid login issues.
Official Documentation
For detailed, step‑by‑step instructions (including screenshots) refer to:
- Golden Software Instructions and FAQ (PDF)
- Includes installation guidance, usage basics, data export instructions, and password change steps
- See page 8 specifically for password change instructions