This question has probably been asked before, but I didn't find anything that specifically answered it, so here we go:
We have a database with hundreds of tables, and I need the capability to generate reports on the fly from a custom query. These would, of course, be simple reports showing the contents of a table or a view.
However, I will also need to be able to specify the fields, set the column headings, include rudimentary filters, indicate the report orientation (portrait or landscape), and possibly other report characteristics. In other words, I would like to be able to generate an RPT file by taking an existing RPT file template, making the necessary changes, and then running the report.
Ideally, I would like to be able to work with an xml version of a Crystal Report template, and generate an RPT file from that.
We have both CR 2013 and CR for Visual Studio, so either one could be used.
What is the best way of doing this?