Introduction
For investors, Capital IQ is a Holy Grail when it comes to gathering financial data and market intelligence. However, there may be times when some of the most basic features of Capital IQ, such as pulling data from a company profile or screening for specific criteria, can produce an error message that reads, “Capability Needed”. Although it can be frustrating, there’s no need to fret. This error is relatively common, and can be easily overcome with tips and tricks that we will discuss in this article.
Understanding the Error
More often than not, the Capability Needed error message appears when a user attempts to perform specific tasks for which they do not have the required Capital IQ access or subscription level. For example, trying to add all the companies included in a peer group to a portfolio. This ‘Capability Needed’ error usually results from a limitation on the user’s subscription level or a specific permission that the user does not have.
Ways to Overcome the Error
1. Check Your Subscription Level
Before attempting any other troubleshooting steps, it is important to check your Capital IQ subscription level. This can be done by navigating to “My Account” and clicking on the “Subscription” tab. From there, you can ensure that you have the requisite access level to perform the desired task.
2. Review Your User Permissions
If you are still getting the error, it may be necessary to review and adjust your user permissions. Permissions define what actions a user can perform within Capital IQ and can vary by account. To do this, log in to your account, click “Admin” and then “Users”. From here, you can view a list of the users on your account and detailed permissions for specific users.
3. Consult with Your Capital IQ Representative
If all else fails, it is important to reach out to your Capital IQ representative for assistance. They can help to walk you through any necessary steps, provide additional support, or help to upgrade your subscription level.
Other Considerations
– Be sure to check the task or action you are attempting to perform with the specific subscription level and permission required for the same.
– Review Known Errors and Solutions on Capital IQ’s Website.
– Double-check that all settings are correct, including any filters being applied.
Conclusion
The Capability Needed error is a common occurrence when using Capital IQ. However, with a better understanding of the error messages, and tips for troubleshooting and addressing the root cause of the error, the issue can be resolved easily. By checking your subscription level, reviewing user permissions, and consulting with your Capital IQ representative when needed, you can minimize the occurrence of this error and maximize your productivity when using this vital financial resource.
