Hi there,

I'd like to discuss a problem I'm currently facing. I have a client application written in NET framework 2.0 and an Internet portal in ASP. Both of these software products need to provide users with various types of reports, such as diagrams and tables. The reports needed for both the client and the portal are the same. I am looking for a system that can generate these reports, and here are the criteria I am considering (listed in order of importance):

- Versatility (ability to use the same report for both the client and the portal)
- Flexible customization of data presentation (options for charts, graphs, histograms, etc.)
- Speed of developing new reports
- Minimal requirement for additional components on the user's machine or any other actions
- Reasonable pricing

Currently, I am considering Crystal Reports, but I have read some unfavorable reviews about it. I would appreciate any opinions or suggestions from those who have encountered similar problems.

Thank you.

Based on your criteria, I can suggest exploring other reporting tools like SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) or Telerik Reporting.

SSRS is part of the Microsoft SQL Server suite and provides a versatile reporting platform. It supports multiple data sources, offers a wide range of customization options, and can be integrated seamlessly with both .NET client applications and ASP.NET web portals.

Telerik Reporting is another popular option that provides a powerful report designer and offers extensive data visualization capabilities. It supports various data sources and provides flexibility in terms of customization and report generation. It can be integrated into both desktop and web applications.

These tools offer versatility, customization options, and support for both client applications and web portals. They also have good documentation and community support to assist with the development of new reports.

As for minimal requirements and pricing, both SSRS and Telerik Reporting have their specific licensing models, so it's essential to evaluate them based on your budget and specific needs.


Here are a few more reporting tools you can consider:

1. Power BI: Power BI is a business intelligence tool that offers robust reporting capabilities. It provides interactive visualizations, data exploration, and automated report generation. Power BI supports a wide range of data sources and can be integrated into both client applications and web portals.

2. JasperReports: JasperReports is an open-source reporting library that can be used to generate and deliver reports in various formats. It provides a flexible report designer and supports multiple data sources. JasperReports can be integrated with .NET applications and web portals through its .NET integration libraries.

3. DevExpress Reporting: DevExpress Reporting is a comprehensive reporting tool that offers a rich set of features for creating interactive reports. It supports various data sources and provides extensive customization options. DevExpress Reporting can be seamlessly integrated into both desktop and web applications.

4. BIRT (Business Intelligence and Reporting Tools): BIRT is another open-source reporting tool that provides a powerful report designer and supports multiple data sources. It offers a wide range of report types and visualizations. BIRT can be integrated with .NET applications and web portals using its .NET integration libraries.

few more reporting tools you can consider:

1. Tableau: Tableau is a popular data visualization and reporting tool that offers a drag-and-drop interface for creating interactive reports. It supports a wide range of data sources and provides advanced analytics capabilities. Tableau can be integrated with both client applications and web portals.

2. QlikView: QlikView is a business intelligence and reporting tool that provides dynamic dashboards and data visualizations. It offers powerful data exploration and discovery features, allowing users to create custom reports. QlikView can be integrated into both client applications and web portals.

3. Pentaho Reporting: Pentaho Reporting is an open-source reporting tool that offers a rich set of features for designing and generating reports. It supports various data sources and provides flexible customization options. Pentaho Reporting can be integrated with both client applications and web portals.

4. Excel/Excel Services: Microsoft Excel is a widely used tool for data analysis and reporting. You can create reports and visualizations within Excel and distribute them via Excel Services, which allows for browser-based viewing and interaction. This option requires Excel on the client machine but can provide a familiar and customizable reporting experience.

When evaluating these tools, consider factors such as ease of use, scalability, performance, and compatibility with your technology stack. Additionally, consider the licensing models and pricing structures associated with each tool.

I propose utilizing HTML5, jQuery, and jQuery plugins on the server for an effortless Windows development experience. One of the most convenient options is to use a Chromium Embedded Framework (CEF) with a .NET port such as Xilium GefGlue. Data binding can be achieved by using data tags in conjunction with requests to $.ajax(..) and ASP.NET web services, depending on the specific requirements.

Additionally, the generated reports will have wide applicability. To enhance the presentation, one can leverage jQuery plugins like Accordion and PieChart. The performance will be suitable, assuming that the user will access the application on Google Chrome and a range of Internet Explorer versions (7, 8, and 9). However, it is important to note that reliance on certain JavaScript "hacks" may be necessary in some cases. Lastly, the price of these solutions is very appealing - they are available free of charge.

I have experience working with different reporting tools, such as Crystal Reports (client server version , Datadynamics ActiveReports (now ComponentOne), Telerik Reports, Fast Reports (.Net version), and SQL Reporting Service in both server and client versions. When choosing a tool, the key consideration is how well your data queries align with your reporting needs.

Active Reports, Telerik, and Fast Reports offer great flexibility in terms of report generation. They allow you to call your own code and incorporate external influences on design and data, among other capabilities. On the other hand, SQL Reporting Service primarily focuses on displaying ready-made data, although it does offer features like graphs and pictures.

Personally, I had a negative experience with Crystal Reports, particularly the older server versions. Changing the system proved to be a challenging task, although upgrading to Crystal Server helped alleviate some of the issues.