Deployment Options - which way to go? 2

[WorkBot]

I am researching a Crystal Reports solution for a client, I need you to confirm which one of possible solutions will work.

The Client’s Platform is -
Ø IBM Informix DBMS running on a Windows NT4 server. ODBC DSNs installed and configured (their application works fine).
Ø Client PCs running Windows 2000 Pro can access the database files via a server share.

The Client’s Requirements
Ø One developer-user able to develop custom reports that run against the Informix database.
Ø The ability to deploy those custom reports to 5 end-users at the client PCs without modifying any existing application or developing a new one just to run the reports.
Ø End-users can run published (deployed) reports by clicking a shortcut or file icon/link on their desktop or browser screen.

The Two Options I am considering
1. Crystal Reports – Developer Edition
2. Crystal Reports – Professional Edition & Crystal Enterprise

I have not been able to confirm if either option will meet the client’s requirements, can you help me out?

Where (besides here) can I get basic info about config and functionality?

Thanks a whole lot in advance,
WorkBot

 

[synapsevampire]

You have options other than those you listed:

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

The problem with the Dev edition is that you'll have to write code.

If you only have 5 users, than CE Standard might suit you, unless the requirements will eventually grow as it is expensive.

-k

 

[WorkBot]

Hey Synapse,

Thanks for the link.

Do you have a recommendation for any of the report managers?

Bot

 

[IdoMillet]

Bot,

You have three stretegies to consider if you decide to use the 3rd-party tools pointed out by SV:

1. Push Mode:
Use just a Report Manager to schedule periodic/exception exports (PDF, Excel, etc.) to the users via e-mail or by sacing the exported reports top a shared folder.

2. Pull Mode:
Install a Report Viewer on each of the users' PCs and let them run the reports when they want.

3. Mixed Mode:
Combination of the 2 strategies above

To the extent that the users simply need the content on a periodic or exception basis -- the Push Mode strategy should be emphasized.

To the extent that the users need interactive (different parameter values, drill-downs) ad-hoc generation of reports -- the Pull Mode strategy should be emphasized.

hth,
- Ido


CUT, Visual CUT, and DataLink Viewer:
view, e-mail, export, burst, distribute, and schedule Crystal Reports.

http://www.MilletSoftware.com

 

[IdoMillet]

Looks like some text got mangled. Here's a repeat:

You have three strategies to consider if you decide to use the 3rd-party tools pointed out by SV:

1. Push Mode:
Use just a Report Manager to schedule periodic/exception exports (PDF, Excel, etc.) to the users via e-mail or by saving the exported reports to a shared folder.

2. Pull Mode:
Install a Report Viewer on each of the users' PCs and let them run the reports when they want.

3. Mixed Mode:
Combination of the 2 strategies above

To the extent that the users simply need the content on a periodic or exception basis -- the Push Mode strategy should be emphasized.

To the extent that the users need interactive (different parameter values, drill-downs) ad-hoc generation of reports -- the Pull Mode strategy should be emphasized.

hth,
- Ido

CUT, Visual CUT, and DataLink Viewer:
view, e-mail, export, burst, distribute, and schedule Crystal Reports.

http://www.MilletSoftware.com

 

[WorkBot]

Thanks Ido,

Pull mode will definetly be the best fit.

So let me be sure I have this straight.
1. Install CRPro on the NT4 server for report development.
2. Install a Viewer on each client PC so their user can view/run the .rpt file.

Where would CE fit in? Would they still need it? If not, what would be the advantage of using viewers over CE?

Bot