
I have also created a detailed feature matrix (XLS) that shows some of the specifics for comparison. Each section is linked to the vendor’s website so you can get more information if needed. I will provide their core features, prices, a brief introduction and what sets each product apart. In this post I will compare most of the viewer programs available. This ‘viewer’ is not in my list because it doesn’t perform the primary function of a viewer – allowing you to refresh a report. This may be because the first ‘viewer’ users are likely to try is the one put out by SAP/BO. And I am amazed at how many Crystal Reports users are completely unaware that these are available, despite the fact that they are offered by a dozen different vendors. The most cost effective method for letting users run reports on demand is to install a third-party client-based viewer. Does he need another copy of Crystal Reports? Do you need to configure an expensive web server?

This user just wants to refresh the reports and view/print/export the results. But what if you have a user who doesn’t need to create reports or even change them.

You use Crystal Reports to create, change and run reports.
