Dynamic and cascading prompts are now available in Crystal Reports. This new feature allows you to populate prompt values from values in a database. Prompts can be arranged in a cascade, where one value in the prompt constrains values in subsequent pick lists. Report designers no longer need to maintain static prompt lists in individual reports. A single prompt definition can be stored in the repository and shared among multiple reports, improving both runtime scalability and design-time productivity.
New RTF export format
A new RTF Export format is available. This new format is optimized for ease of editing the files that it generates. This feature complements the existing RTF export that is optimized for accuracy and forms processing. The result is that you can now choose from two different RTF export formats, depending on whether you require accuracy or the ability to edit.
Dynamic graphic location
You can now place pictures and graphics in a report through a link stored in a database, so that it is no longer necessary to store images within the database. This new feature supports the common practice of storing images on a web server and storing references to those images in a database.
Parameterized sorting
Group sort order and top or bottom N reports can now have their sort values driven by a formula. This new feature means that you can now use parameters to control sort order and the N value of a top or bottom N report. The result is a single report that is more flexible and can meet the needs of more users, reducing the total number of reports for you to create and support.
Hierarchical grouping improvements
Enhanced hierarchical grouping provides increased layout control so that groups are now nested in a hierarchy, and you now have more fine-grained control over hierarchy indenting. You can now indent specific objects in a section according to their hierarchy level, instead of automatically indenting all objects in the hierarchy.
Save export configuration options
For many export formats, you can now save report export-configuration information with the report itself. This feature means that the report designer can preset the appropriate export options, and end users will use those options when exporting through the report viewers. This process results in more accurate export output with less end-user training.
Improved usability
HTML preview
Crystal Reports now offers a new HTML preview that lets you see how your reports will look when published to the web. This feature is found in the familiar Crystal Reports design environment as an additional view tab. When you use this feature, you can save time by not having to repeat the iterative task of publishing your reports to the web as you design them.
Updated Repository Explorer
The new Repository Explorer makes it easier to navigate within the BusinessObjects Enterprise system. You are better able to share reporting components with other users through the repository.
Workbench
The Workbench lets you keep projects organized and allows you to group reports in folders according to your preference.
Drag-and-drop charts and cross-tabs
New drag-and-drop charts and cross-tabs introduce intelligent charting and cross-tab design by letting Crystal Reports automatically create a chart or cross-tab that is based on the data in your report. Chart and cross-tab design is now faster and easier.
Update patch installation
This new feature is similar to Windows Update in that it allows you to stay current with the latest updates to Crystal Reports.
Enhanced report viewer
The resizable group tree improves report viewing for long group names, and the toolbar has been updated to be more consistent across viewers.