What is included in the steps for running a report?

The correct choice highlights the process of summarizing a matrix report as an essential step in running a report. When dealing with matrix reports, summarization refers to the ability to condense data across multiple dimensions, which is key to deriving meaningful insights. This involves aggregating data according to specified criteria, such as summing sales by region and product type. By summarizing the matrix, users can interpret large datasets more effectively, which enhances decision-making and reporting outcomes.

The other options, while related to reporting, do not directly correlate with the immediate steps necessary for running a report. Creating new metrics may be part of the preparatory phase but isn't a direct step taken every time a report is run. Defining user permissions pertains more to security and access management rather than the report execution phase itself. Exporting data is usually a subsequent step after the report is generated and analyzed, not part of the core reporting process. Thus, summarizing the matrix is a pivotal step that directly influences the quality and usability of the report generated.