Executable Reports

[TEM3]

A quote from a CR site:

"Crystal Reports offers the option to compile executable versions of reports. "

I am using 8.5. Which version started allowing the above?? (Or am I missing something in 8.5???)

 

[vidru]

I think you're looking for this: Report Distribution Expert

-dave

 

[kskid]

If you have CR8.5 Developer then you can create compiled reports. However, if you don't, then you are limited to Report Distribution.

If you are intending to upgrade CR, then your best bet is to use Report Distribution.

-LW

 

[kskid]

Forgot to mention, Compiled executable version of reports ended with CR8.5.

Compiled Reports can also become a maintenance nightmare if you have both a lot of users as well as report changes to make. Better finalze the report once and for all before sending it out. Also make sure your users don't move around.

-LW

 

[TEM3]

I downloaded and installed the "Report Distribution Expert" package. I printed the documentation, but, of course, have not read it yet.

I compiled a fairly simple report and it seems to work. But it leaves a mess in it's wake. I am wondering, off the bat, if that mess will serve other compiled reports, or if it will increase in "messyness" with each compiled report.

Also, it appears that my users will have to enter the password for access to the Oracle tables used by the reports. Not something I really wanted to distribute.

Anyway, I will play (and maybe even read), and I thank you all for your help and direction.

Are any of you using this as a serious distribution tool??

 

[vidru]

I wouldn't use it as a "serious distribution tool" at all. You should check out some of the report viewer options on Ken Hamady's site:

http://www.kenhamady.com/bookmarks.html

I just officially deployed my very own Viewer to a client for the first time, about 5 minutes ago. I feel like a proud papa...

-dave

 

[scottostanek]

If you have any programming how-to you can also roll your own viewer. I used the demo supplied with CR8.5's downloadable VCL to create single and multiple report interfaces with Delphi 5 (,6 and 7).

This lets me do things like preset parameters to particular salesmen, so the generic report (show all) never gets run by anyone but management. It also lets me exchange the nasty date range interface and param interface of CR8.5 with a show all things at once form of interface.

Scotto the Unwise

 

[TEM3]

Sounds like something I want to try (rolling my own viewer). Where do I find the "demo supplied with CR8.5's downloadable VCL".

Thanks.