In 11.2 we quietly released a fantastic feature which enabled report users to quickly and easily load predefined report templates. These templates are an initial stepping stone into full fledged reporting as they powerfully demonstrate how one could develop any style of report. This feature can be easily activated by creating a new report and accessing the report smart-tag. In the smart tag you will notice a couple of interesting new options. These options are “Load Report Template” and “Edit Bindings".” The first option will, by default, load a set of predefined templates that we’ve created at DevExpress to show you some of the capabilities of our fantastic reporting suite. Because these templates were created with different data shapes, the Edit Bindings command allows you to edit these in a simple and easy to use interface.
Below is what one would see if they were to use our reporting templates:
The “Edit Bindings” feature (new in 12.1) is an easy way to re-map each of the bindings defined in the template:
The question now becomes “how do I make my own templates?” 12.1 also saw the release of a brand new template-extractor-like tool called the Report Template Editor:
This tool will extract any and all report styles from existing report objects (within assemblies) as well as persisted report layouts:
This tool additionally comes with the ability to edit the template in preparation for packaging.
In the next installment of our foray into the report template features available in 12.1, I will discuss how you can enable the use of your custom templates as a means of getting your end users up and running with an appropriately styled report within the End User Report Designer. I think it is absolutely fantastic stuff!
As always, if there are any comments and/or questions, feel free to get a hold of me!
Seth Juarez
Email: sethj@devexpress.com
Twitter: @SethJuarez
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