How to use Parameter Files for scheduled reports

[mmunch]

I'm trying to find documentation on how to use parameter files with scheduled report runs.

I have a report that I would like to schedule to run weekly returning the last weeks data. I also want to allow users to run this report on an adhoc basis over a time frame of their choice.

Do I need to have 2 seperate reports (one that dynamically calculates the last 7 days within the SQL and another that allows users to input their prefered report period as parameters) or canI use one report and a parameter file to control the scheduled run?

Help,

mmunch

[averma]

Hi mmunch,
You could create a parameter value file and use that to schedule jobs based on calender or on events. To create a parameter value file, log into management console, on Files and Folders, point to the arrow next to a report executable file name, then choose Create Parameter Values File. To run a report using a parameter values file, point to the arrow next to the file name, then choose Schedule or Run.
You could schedule as many jobs as you like with a single report design file or a parameter value file and control the name and location of the report output for each job. Management console has more advanced capabilities for job scheduling.

Ashwini

[mmunch]

Would you please upload an example parameter file.
What should it contain? What is the format?

Thanks,

Morgan

[averma]

Hi Morgan,

It is a binary file, I am attaching a sample. The format of the file is proprietary to Actuate. If you are looking to create your own parameter file through an external process then you should consider using web services API's. Assuming default installation on localhost you can find definition of this web service through the following url:
http://localhost:8000/wsdl/v10/axis/...eterValuesFile

What is your specific use case?


Ashwini

[averma]

Hi mmunch:
If it is easier you could have two separate reports as you had suggested earlier - one Report Design (scheduled) that has either SQL to define the current dates… or using BIRT scripting in the beforeOpen of the dataset… and another Report Design that the user runs and enters time frame of choice as parameters.
Here is further documentation on scheduling, running and managing reports:
http://www.birt-exchange.org/documen...=jobs.8.1.html


Ashwini