Report Data entity

A Report Data entity generates the logic to retrieve data from the database and run a report based on a defined data definition and report layout.

A Report Data entity is represented as a 4rd file which can be opened and edited.

When a Report Data entity is implemented from the diagram, the 4rd file is created as well as 4gl source files containing the report's driver and routing instructions.

Any changes to the Report Data entity properties in the BA diagram or in the 4rd file are included in the subsequent re-generating of the program code.

The generated code can be customized.

Right-click the Report Data entity in the diagram to display a context menu of options.

Table 1. Context Menu Options
Menu Option Description
Implement Report Data Creates a new blank Report Data entity (4rd) to build from scratch.
Implement Report Data from Database Provides a New Record wizard to select tables and columns to include in the Report Data entity business record (4rd). This option is generally preferred. The business record can be modified after it is created.
Open Opens the report business record.
Convert to Converts entity from one type to another.
Add Relation To Add a relation starting from the selected item.
Locate in Project Locates and highlights the selected item in the project.
Hide Hide the selected item.
Show All Items Show all hidden items in diagram (menu is active if items are hidden)
Filter Items... Select items to show in the diagram by filtering. Allows you to select items or search for items by name in the Filter View dialog.
Cut (Ctrl+X) Cut the selected item.
Copy (Ctrl+C) Copy the selected item.
Paste (Ctrl+V) Paste an item from the clipboard.
Rename (F2) Rename the selected item.
Delete (Del) Delete the selected item.
Select Relation Select a relation by selecting from the menu list. The options for selection are:
  • By relation name in the diagram
  • By relation type (form, report, phone, etc) to/from the selected item
  • All listed relations to/from the selected item
  • All relations in the diagram
Select item Select an entity by selecting from the menu list. There is an option to select all items in the diagram.