What is the most efficient data format to use for Crystal

[NAQS]

Hi All

I have to export data from our Application into a format that Crystal Reports 8.5 can use. There are several Options, I was hoping to use XML, however as our users don't have CR 8.5 installed we can't programmatically setup the ODBC Datasource. Which is the most efficient and effective format to export to (Database, or a txt or csv file) for crystal to utilise.

 

[dgillz]

Why export the data first? Why not just use crystal and an ODBC data source or a native driver to read it directly? Software Training and Support for Macola, Crystal Reports and Goldmine
714-348-0964
dgilsdorf@mchsi.com

 

[AndrewBaines]

If it's from an application you can just shove the recordset at Crystal with no export in between.
XML is great for passing data around but for reporting its poor - no indexes etc.

If you have to export the data and it's not a huge amount, an access mdb is as good as anything. Just add indexes etc and they're off.

txt and csv are very slow too and can be fiddly to set up and maintain. Andrew Baines
Chase International