Re: [Q] Client/Server Report Writers

> billy.wheeler@pixie.co.za (Billy Wheeler) writes: > Dear All, > > I have some questions regarding report writers for MS Windows. I would > prefer feedback from users. And in order to minimise bandwidth consumtion > you might want to e-mail me and if there's sufficient interest I'll post a > summary. > > 1. Has anybody used Brio? If so, any problems/highlights? > > 2. Have you used any other reportwriters (IQ, Crystal, etc.) If so, any > problems/highlights. > > 3. Any comparisons between report writers would also be appreciated. > > TIA. > > Hasta la vista! > > -- > > billy.wheeler@pixie.co.za > > >>>> My company is currently in the process of evaluating End-User Query Tools. I was the project lead until other priorities got in the way. This is what I experienced during that short time: 1) Software AG's Esperant GREAT for non-technical users, but having problems generating the correct syntax. They're working on it. Best point: uses temp tables and puts more work on the backend instead of dragging thousands of rows across the network and tying up the PC forever 2) Intersolv's Data Direct Not so easy for non-technical users. Has a problem generating the right syntax for group bys with sort descending on aggregate column. They're working on it. 3) Crystal Inc gets the job done, better than Infomaker, price is right. My biggest complaint with most of these query tools is I don't like the idea of dragging thousands of rows across the network and tying up the PC forever. It's an inefficient use of your engine and network. The users don't like it, the network administrator doesn't like it. Unfortunately, the ones who do what I like are a bit expensive. (Obviously, I'm prejudiced in favor of Esperant, ' case you didn't notice)