31 July 2024

Understanding Interactive and Classic Reports: Key Differences and Benefits

What Are Interactive Reports?

Interactive reports are sophisticated, formatted results derived from SQL queries. These reports are created using the Create Application Wizard and the Create Page Wizard, tailored specifically for desktop applications. Interactive reports stand out by allowing users to extensively customize both the layout and the data displayed, making them ideal for dynamic data analysis and decision-making.

Compare SQL Interactive and Classic Reports, highlighting key features and customization differences.

Key Features of Interactive Reports:

Multiple Reports per Page: Developers can embed multiple interactive reports within a single page, with the ability to control and limit the features accessible to end users.
User Customization: End users have the flexibility to modify the display of data through built-in features such as a search bar, an Actions menu, column heading menus, and edit icons, which are embedded by default in the first column of each row.

What Are Classic Reports?

Classic reports also present formatted results of SQL queries but with fewer customization options compared to interactive reports. These reports can be generated using both the Create Application Wizard and the Create Page Wizard. Classic reports are designed for straightforward data presentation with basic interaction capabilities.

Key Features of Classic Reports:

Limited End-User Customization: End users can perform simple data sorting and filtering, but cannot extensively customize the report.
Report Creation: Developers create classic reports by selecting a table or providing a SQL statement.
Basic Functionality: Classic reports offer essential features such as keyword search, control over the number of rows displayed, and basic column sorting.

Key Differences Between Interactive and Classic Reports:

Customization: Interactive reports offer extensive customization options for end users, while classic reports are limited to basic sorting and filtering.
Functionality: Interactive reports come with advanced features like search bars, Actions menus, and editable columns, whereas classic reports focus on simple data presentation.
Flexibility: Interactive reports allow multiple reports per page with restricted end-user capabilities, offering greater flexibility in data analysis.

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