If you want to write reports, you can use many tools for SQL reports writer software. Some of these tools include boxed software reporting tools as well as open source tools that can be customized. Which type of tool is right for you? That question depends on many factors. Let’s look at some of your potential considerations as well as some up and down sides to using open source reporting software.
Pros and Cons of Different Reporting Tools
Of course a boxed product comes in a pretty box (most of the time) with a manual and a 1 – 800 # for support. You won’t get that with open source unless you’re prepared to work with a consultant or developer. So what are the benefits of using open source reporting software?
What is open source software?
Open source software is free and is software that you are allowed to modify to suit your own purposes. Open source typically comes with a general public license and this allows you to use it and develop it without your having to worry about intellectual property rights or software licensing. One of the great things about open source software is that people who use it can share tips and information on modifications and features. So, if you have an open source report writing software package, you can share modifications to it with other people and they can share their modifications with you as well.
A downside to open source software is that you cannot typically get official support for the software. This type of software is ideal if you like to dabble on your own. While there is no company support, for open source software there is always a community of people using the tool that share information. You can get help from others and you can give help to others. You can also read through plenty of literature by other users who have successfully configured the tool as well as read through any frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ).
Does your business need an SQL reporting consultant or other analytical help?
Open source software can often be made for several platforms including Windows, Linux and MAC OSx and you can often find such a wealth of information that it might seem like a great and inexpensive way to get the software and fulfill your reporting needs. Some modifications are designed in a way that will let you talk between several databases including: SQL, Oracle, IBM DB/2 and others.
Should you use open source software for SQL reports?
Some people who are technical in nature do successfully use open source software. Others find it too difficult because they’d much rather use something that has a 1 – 800 number that they can call for help. However if you do choose to adapt to the flexibility of an open source Reporting Tool, you can always hire an SQL Reports Consultant or other Reporting Consultant to be your line of technical support for your report writing software (whether it’s boxed or open source!).
Some Reporting Solutions Consultants, such as Reporting Guru, allow businesses to purchase support or turnkey solutions from their consultants and developers so that you can get the best of both worlds including:
- The ability to modify and customize the software
- The ability to get help if you need it and have it customized to your own requirements.
- No long term contracts – work only as needed.
- Responsive written and oral communication using project management software.
Your options are wide and varied when it comes to SQL reporting tools. Whether you choose open source reporting tools or boxed software reporting tools, a SQL reports writer software can provide you with a lot of details about your data that can ultimately have a positive impact on your business.
At Reporting Guru IT Reporting Services our developers will be happy to discuss your requirements at no charge. We work only as needed and we do not charge a retainer and there is no minimum charge. If you would like a free analysis or demo, give us a call at 1-800-921-4759 or fill out our contact form.