As businesses and organizations start to realize the value of data-driven decision-making, the need for high-quality reporting tools has grown exponentially along with open source reporting free tools.
But the challenge is to find the right tool that meets your requirements without breaking the bank. Open source report software offer an inexpensive free reporting tool alternative to the expensive licensed software packages available in the market.
In this blog, we will take a look at the 25 best open source report tools that you may have yet to hear about.
These free reporting tools are powerful, easy to use, and reliable. Reporting software open source offer an array of features and integrations that can help you create beautiful and interactive reports to help you make data-driven decisions. So, let’s get started!
Skip Directly to Best Open Source Report Tools ⬇️
What are Open Source Report Tools?
Open source reporting tools are software applications that are free to use and modify. They are developed collaboratively by a community of developers and users and can be used for various purposes, such as data analysis, reporting, and visualization.
Open source reporting frameworks allow users to create dynamic, interactive reports and dashboards that can be updated easily and quickly. Users can customize data visualizations, customize report formats, and create complex reports with multiple data sets.
These drag and-drop report builder open source tools are free to use for data discovery, allowing users to explore data and uncover trends, correlations, and insights. Open source report tools are ideal for businesses, researchers, students, and anyone else who needs to analyze and report on data.
Benefits Of Using Open Source Report Tools
Open source data reporting tools provide a great way to quickly generate detailed and accurate reports. These tools offer numerous benefits, including increased flexibility, improved cost savings, and stronger security.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of using open source report software:
1. Low Cost
Open source report tools are often free or low-cost compared to proprietary solutions. This can be a great way to save money when generating reports.
2. Increased Flexibility
Open source report tools provide greater flexibility and customization than proprietary solutions. You can easily customize a report to your own specific requirements without having to depend on the vendor’s solution.
3. Secure Platform
Open source tools are usually better secured than proprietary solutions. This is because the code for the open source tools is usually open source and can be reviewed by anyone.
4. Support
Since open source tools are free, they often have a large community of users who are willing to offer support and advice. This makes it easier to find help with any issues you may have.
5. Collaboration
Working with an open source report tool allows for easier collaboration with other people. You can easily share your reports and work together to create great reports.
6. Accessibility
Open source report tools can be accessed from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. This makes it easier to access and generate reports on the go.
7. Automation
Open source report tools can be automated, which can help save time. This can be a great way to streamline the reporting process and increase efficiency.
8. Scalability
Reporting software open source can easily be scaled up or down depending on your team’s needs.
Categories Of Reports
The two different types of reports used in data analysis are: Static reports and interactive reports.
Static Reports
Static reports are reports that are generated from a single set of data and are not interactive. They are typically used to provide a snapshot of the data at a given point in time.
Static reports are typically used to provide a quick overview of the data. They are often used to provide a summary of the data, such as the total number of records, the average value of a particular field, or the distribution of values across a range of fields.
Static reports are also used to provide a snapshot of the data at a given point in time.
Interactive Reports
These are reports that allow users to interact with the data and explore different aspects of the data. They are typically used to provide a more in-depth analysis of the data.
Interactive reports are used to provide a more in-depth analysis of the data. They allow users to interact with the data and explore different aspects of the data.
For example, interactive reports can be used to compare different sets of data, identify trends, or visualize relationships between various fields.
Interactive reports are also used to provide a more detailed analysis of the data, such as correlations between different fields or the impact of certain variables on the data.
Static Vs Interactive Reports
Both static and interactive reports have their advantages and disadvantages.
Static reports are typically easier to generate and provide a quick overview of the data. However, they are limited in their ability to provide a more in-depth analysis of the data.
Interactive reports, on the other hand, are more complex to generate but provide a more detailed analysis of the data.
Key Takeaway:
The choice between static and interactive reports depends on various factors, including the purpose of the report, the target audience, the nature of the data, and the specific requirements of the analysis.
Both static and interactive reports have their own advantages and considerations.
Let’s explore them in more detail:
Advantages of Static Reports:
Static reports are pre-defined, fixed reports that present information in a static format, typically as a PDF, Word document, or printed document. Here are some key considerations:
Simplicity:
Static reports are straightforward and easy to create, share, and distribute.
Universally Accessible:
Static reports can be accessed by anyone with the appropriate file format reader, making them widely accessible.
Consistency:
Static reports ensure consistent presentation and formatting, as they are fixed and do not change over time.
Print-Friendly:
Static reports are suitable for printing and physical distribution.
Limitations of Static Reports
Limited Interactivity
Static reports lack interactive elements, making it challenging for users to explore the data further or drill down into specific details.
Limited Customization
Customizing or modifying static reports often requires manual editing or redesigning.
Reduced Engagement
Static reports may not provide an engaging experience for the audience, potentially resulting in reduced interest or attention.
Data Exploration Constraints
Static reports may not allow users to manipulate or interact with the data directly, limiting their ability to analyze and derive insights.
Advantages Interactive Reports:
Interactive reports offer users the ability to explore and interact with the data, often through online platforms or dedicated software. Here are some key considerations:
Enhanced Data Exploration
Interactive reports provide users with the ability to manipulate and explore data, enabling deeper analysis and insights.
Customization Options
Interactive reports often offer customization features, allowing users to tailor the view and analysis to their specific needs.
Dynamic Updates
Interactive reports can incorporate real-time or near-real-time data updates, ensuring the information is always current.
Improved User Engagement
Interactivity and engagement features in interactive reports can enhance the user experience and facilitate better understanding of the data.
Limitations of Interactive Reports
Complexity
Developing interactive reports can be more complex and time-consuming compared to static reports, requiring technical expertise or specialized software.
Technical Requirements
Interactive reports may require specific software or online platforms to access and use, potentially limiting accessibility for some users.
Learning Curve
Users may need to learn how to navigate and interact with the report’s interface, which can require some level of familiarity or training.
Potential Distraction
Interactive features in reports may sometimes distract users from the core information or insights, leading to less focused analysis.
In summary, static reports are simpler and more suitable for presenting fixed information, while interactive reports offer greater flexibility and exploration capabilities.
Consider the specific needs of your audience and the goals of your analysis to determine which type of report is more appropriate for your situation.
In some cases, a combination of both static and interactive elements can be used to provide a comprehensive reporting experience.
25 Best Open Source Report Tools in 2024
1. Dotnetreport.com
Dotnetreport.com is a business intelligence tool that makes it easy to visualize and explore data from any source.
Dotnetreport allows users to connect to data sources, create reports, and share insights with their team in real time.
It features a powerful, drag-and-drop report designer that enables users to create compelling reports with charts, graphs, and tables.
Features:
1. Data Sources
Supports data from a variety of sources including SQL, CSV, JSON, and XML.
2. Template Designer
Create custom templates for reports using HTML and CSS.
3. Data Visualization
Includes charting, gauges, maps, and other data visualization components.
4. Interactive Elements
Includes filters, drill-downs, and other interactive elements for end users.
5. Embeddable
Reports can be embedded in web applications and other applications.
6. Flexible Formatting
Supports a wide range of formatting options including font size, color, and alignment.
7. Export Options
Supports exporting reports to various formats such as PDF, Excel, and CSV.
8. Security
Includes role-based security and user authentication.
9. API
Includes an API for integrating reports into applications.
Dotnetreport also features an intuitive dashboard builder that makes it easy to create custom dashboards to monitor key metrics and trends.
Additionally, it comes with a built-in data exploration tool that enables users to explore and analyze data without writing complex SQL queries.
Dotnetreport.com also offers a range of integrations with other tools, such as Salesforce, Google Sheets, and Slack.
Pricing
You can choose between a monthly or an annual package. In both cases, there is an open source option available. Furthermore, each package has a free trial period with full customer support and the team helps with implementation.
The premium starts at $85/month or $950/year. The packages go up to the enterprise level with limitless databases, API requests, saved reports, multi-tenant end clients, and more.
You can even schedule a demo to get a better understanding of the product and how it can be the best fit for your business whether you are looking for open source reporting free solutions or a subscription plan.
2. Metabase
Metabase is an open source data analytics and business intelligence platform that enables users to ask questions about their data and gain insight from it.
It works by connecting to data sources, such as databases and spreadsheets, so users can access and analyze their data without having to write complex SQL queries.
Key Features:
- Connects to various data sources (databases, spreadsheets).
- Provides a simple interface for data exploration and analysis.
- Offers a powerful query builder for creating complex queries without code.
- Customizable dashboards for real-time monitoring.
- Cloud and on-premise versions available (free and paid plans).
3. Seal Report
Seal Report is an open source reporting tool designed to help users generate, analyze and manage reports in multiple formats. It is written in C# using Microsoft .NET Framework and features a powerful and intuitive graphical user interface.
Key Features:
- Create reports from multiple data sources and manage data with powerful visual query-building tools.
- Manage and store reports in a secure and centralized repository.
- Analyze reports with powerful charting, pivot table, and drill-down capabilities.
- Schedule reports to run regularly and deliver them to users via e-mail.
- Share reports with other users and groups.
- Define user and group access rights and security levels for reports.
- Export reports to multiple formats, including Microsoft Excel, PDF, HTML, and CSV.
- Customize reports with user-defined parameters, formulas, and expressions.
- Integrate reports with other applications, such as Microsoft Office.
4. SQL Power Architect
SQL Power Architect is an open source data modeling and profiling tool. It is designed to help data architects, data analysts, and database administrators in designing complex databases and data warehouses.
It is also a powerful tool for analyzing data sources and understanding their relationships.
Key Features:
- Reverse engineer existing databases and create logical models.
- Supports multiple databases (Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, DB2).
- Generate physical models, DDL scripts, and reports.
- Powerful profiling and data lineage analysis.
- Collaboration tools for multiple users and roles.
5. JasperReports
JasperReports is an incredibly popular open-source reporting tool that makes analyzing data and generating reports a breeze. It enables companies, developers, and end-users to quickly create highly customizable and accurate static and dynamic reports without the need for any programming or scripting knowledge.
Key Features:
- Highly customizable static and dynamic reports.
- Supports multiple data sources and export formats (PDF, HTML, CSV, XML).
- Powerful reporting engine with support for complex charts, images, and subreports.
- Integrates with traditional databases and Big Data sources (Hadoop, MongoDB).
- Offers dynamic filters and sorting options for in-depth analysis.
6. iReport
iReport is an extremely powerful tool for creating professional-grade reports. Developed by JasperSoft, it is a free and open-source report designer that allows users to confidently create complex reports in a matter of minutes.
The user-friendly interface is streamlined with the tools to quickly produce various report elements like charts, images, sub-reports, cross-tables, etc.
Key Features:
- Intuitive interface for creating complex reports.
- Integrates with JasperReports Library and Server for web publishing.
- Supports multiple data sources (databases, spreadsheets, text files).
- Customizable charts, images, subreports, and cross-tables.
- Suitable for users without SQL or development experience.
7. JFreeChart
JFreeChart is an open-source, Java-based chart library that is simple to use and easy to extend.
It is completely free and lightweight, yet extremely powerful and capable of generating a huge variety of different types of charts, including line graphs, bar charts, pie charts, area charts, Gantt charts, dashboards, mixed graphs, and much more.
Key Features:
- Generates line graphs, bar charts, pie charts, area charts, and more.
- Exports charts in multiple formats (PNG, JPEG, PDF, EPS, SVG).
- Suitable for both server-side and client-side applications.
- Flexible design for easy extension and customization.
8. Pentaho
Pentaho is an open-source business intelligence (BI) suite that provides users with a wide range of features and tools for creating, managing, and analyzing data. It includes a reporting designer, reporting engine, and the reporting SDK, making it incredibly useful for today’s businesses that rely heavily on data to make important decisions.
The Pentaho Community Edition is free of charge via the Apache Software License and given its comprehensive feature set and low cost of ownership (the Community Edition being free), Pentaho is rapidly becoming one of the most popular BI suites for small-to-medium size businesses.
Key Features:
- Reporting designer, engine, and SDK included.
- Generates reports in formats like Excel, PDF, HTML, text, XML, and CSV.
- Supports multiple data sources and integration with cloud-based solutions.
- User-friendly interface with intuitive navigation.
9. BIRT
BIRT (Business Intelligence and Reporting Tools) is an open-source project founded by the Eclipse Foundation. It provides a platform for developers to create reports that can be embedded into rich clients and web applications.
The two main components of the software are a visual report designer and runtime components that can be deployed in Java environments, making it a very powerful reporting tool.
Key Features:
- Visual report designer and runtime components for Java environments.
- Supports multiple data sources (SQL, XML, JDO, script objects).
- Provides an expansive suite of tools for complex visualizations.
- Free for business use with access to designs saved as XML files.
10. Easy Report
EasyReport is a powerful c# Excel plug-in that offers easy and straightforward database reporting. It extracts the data from the row and columns in SQL statements and converts it into HTML tables with RowSpan and ColSpan support.
Key Features:
- Supports MS SQL Server, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQLite.
- Converts SQL statements into HTML tables with advanced formatting.
- Offers Excel export, chart display, fixed headers, and timing tasks.
- Includes REST API service and user/authority management.
11. nuBuilder Forte
NuBuilder Forte is an intuitive and cost-effective cloud database builder that enables users to interact with their data in ways they never thought possible. This online platform enables users to create, store, and share databases quickly and efficiently.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop builder for non-technical users.
- Integrated security protocols and mobile access.
- Backend REST API for seamless integration with other applications.
- Tailored and custom databases without having to hire any specialists or experts.
- Prebuilt templates for improved efficiency.
12. sarg
Sarg (Squid Analysis Report Generator) is a useful open-source tool for network administrators and IT professionals to monitor user internet activities. It allows them to view where their users are going on the internet, such as the websites they visited and how much time they spend there.
Key Features:
- Generates HTML reports on detailed insights into users’ IP addresses, bytes downloaded and uploaded, sites visited, and the duration of visits.
- Granular control over report generation and export formats.
- Ideal for auditing and compliance reviews.
- It is reliable, robust, and very easy to use.
13. LimeReport
LimeReport is an excellent report generator library written using the Qt framework for software developers who want to add a reporting capability to their applications. The included designer allows users to quickly and intuitively create reports and save them in XML format, ready for printing or previewing.
Key Features:
- Allows creating reports using multiple data sources (SQL databases, variables).
- Designer tool for quick and intuitive report creation.
- Broad application across various industries (invoicing, payroll, document management).
- LimeReport provides a great platform for generating customizable reports quickly with a professional-grade finish.
14. QtRPT
QtRPT is an easy-to-use report library and designer that enables users to quickly generate and design reports. It is written using C++ QtToolkit, providing a rich library of features including the ability to combine multiple reports in one XML file, which can be used for simple or complex reporting solutions.
Key Features:
- Combine multiple reports in one file.
- User-friendly interface.
- Customizable text formatting and design options.
- Richly formatted reports ready for print or online publishing.
15. Limbas
Limbas is an advanced database system that can help businesses make the best out of their data. It provides powerful features for managing tables, data structures, forms, reports, charts, and even workflows.
On top of that, as it’s based on PHP, users are able to modify the code themselves if they have some programming know-how or use third-party add-ons and libraries created by other experienced developers in the community.
Key Features:
- Powerful features for managing tables, forms, reports, and charts.
- Open-source with modular structure for easy customization.
- Ideal for businesses needing scalable data management solutions.
16. FastReport Open Source
FastReport Open Source is a free and open-source reporting tool for .NET Core/.NET Framework applications, providing developers with an efficient way to create document-like reports. It supports automatic layouts, styles, and various export formats.
Key Features:
- Automatic layout tools, styles, printing options, charts, and diagrams.
- Export reports in multiple formats (PDF, HTML, MHT).
- Support for 128 types of variables (counters, sums, page numbers).
- Wide range of components, including viewport controls and cross-tabular expressions.
17. CuteReport
CuteReport is a Qt-based reporting solution offering modularity and flexibility for easy integration into applications. It features a core library and a template designer that cater to both novice and experienced users.
Key Features:
- Modular design for extended functionality.
- Abstracted data handling for various data sources.
- Easy integration with file systems, databases, and version control.
- Customizable reporting through additional modules.
- Developers have access to robust features that make it easy to develop customized and sophisticated reports that meet their application demands.
18. Report Builder
Report Builder is a tool designed for .NET developers to create visually appealing reports efficiently. It offers creative control over report design with runtime editing capabilities.
Key Features:
- Integration with Visual Studio for easy report creation.
- Runtime report design and editing.
- Data management with filtering and sorting options.
- Customizable appearance with background images and text boxes.
- Allows to quickly generate professionally-looking reports without having to learn a complicated software platform or pour hours of effort into designing visually appealing documents.
19. Databox
Databox is a business analytics platform that centralizes data from multiple sources, offering smart insights and alerts. It is ideal for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to monitor operations in real-time.
Key Features:
- Connects with cloud services, spreadsheets, and databases.
- Provides morning briefings and smart alerts.
- Mobile app access for data on-the-go.
- Customizable dashboards with multiple data source integrations.
- Users can also use the Databox mobile app to access everything from the comfort of their own devices.
20. Domo
Domo is a cloud-based business management platform that enables data access, visualization, and collaboration for improved decision-making. It supports businesses in leveraging data analytics efficiently.
Key Features:
- All-in-one data access, preparation, and visualization.
- Interactive insights and a wide range of applications.
- Scalable performance provisioning.
- Flexible deployment options.
- It helps professionals attain maximum efficiency while leveraging powerful data analytics capabilities.
21. SuiteCRM
SuiteCRM is an award-winning open-source CRM platform offering extensive customization and scalability. It includes various modules for marketing, sales, and customer service.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive CRM functionalities for diverse business needs.
- Onsite hosting for GDPR compliance and data control.
- Mobile variants for remote access.
- Modules for marketing automation, sales forecasting, and document management.
22. Jaspersoft Studio
Jaspersoft Studio is an Eclipse-based reporting development tool for JasperReports, a powerful open-source reporting platform. It provides a comprehensive set of features to help streamline the design process and produce high-quality reports.
Key Features:
- Advanced expression builders and layout components (tables, charts, crosstabs).
- Integration with JasperReports Server for data management.
- Drag-and-drop report customization.
- Interactive HTML elements for enhanced data analysis.
23. JasperStarter
JasperStarter is a powerful tool to help those who use the JasperReports library for reporting tasks, ideal for automating and scheduling report tasks. It offers efficient batch compilation and execution.
Key Features:
- Command-line report execution and automation.
- Batch compilation of multiple report documents.
- Scheduling capabilities for large datasets.
- Intuitive modules for improved workflow efficiency.
- Combined with its intuitiveness and modules’ built-in support, it provides an ideal solution for those looking at automating their JasperReport tasks or improving their team’s workflow efficiency when managing reports.
24. Open Reports
Open Reports is a web-based reporting tool that supports multiple open-source engines, allowing users to view various reports in different formats from their browser.
The powerful reporting library of Open Reports provides comprehensive insights into business processes where users can gather real-time data and convert it into meaningful and actionable information.
Key Features:
- Supports multiple reporting engines (JasperReports, JFreeReport, JXLS, Eclipse BIRT).
- Java customization for accurate report generation.
- Web-based tools for report scheduling and management.
- Real-time data analysis and actionable insights.
It’s designed to support multiple open-source reporting engines, including JasperReports, JFreeReport, JXLS, and Eclipse BIRT. As a result, users have access to a variety of report formats such as PDFs, HTML documents, and XLS spreadsheets.
25. SpagoBI
SpagoBI is an open-source business intelligence suite with advanced analytics and reporting features. It offers self-service, geo-location, and social network analytics. Developed and maintained by the Engineering Group’s SpagoBI lab, it offers innovative solutions in self-service analytics and reporting, geo-location analytics, what-if analytics, and social network analytics.
Key Features:
- Self-service analytics with easy dataset uploads.
- Geo-location analytics for geographical insights.
- What-if analysis for accurate projections.
- Social network analytics for trend analysis and campaign monitoring.
Related Questions:
What is a Formal Report?
A formal report is a detailed representation of data and information that is written in a professional style. It presents an objective view of the issues addressed and provides evidence to support any conclusions drawn.
Formal reports are often issued by organizations for internal or external communication purposes, such as assessing progress on projects or communicating research results.
In addition, they can be used to provide recommendations on proposed solutions to complex problems.
What is an Informal Report?
Informal reports are shorter documents containing personal opinions and more casual writing styles. These types of reports are typically used within teams or amongst peers and may focus on individual experiences rather than hard facts.
They can include topics such as views from team members regarding accomplishments or challenges faced during a project, as well as potential improvements that could be made in the future.
Informal reports may have less structure than formal ones but still offer valuable insight into current processes or trends when regularly evaluated over time.
What is a long report and a short report?
Long and short reports are documents used to give detailed information about a certain topic. Depending on the length of the report, it can go into great depth regarding its subject matter. A short report is usually limited to one page or less, wherein only the pertinent details get featured.
This could be anything from an extensive overview of a business concept to a formal summary of an event. Longer reports can be much more detailed, as they often tend to include multiple sections that delve deeply into the subject being studied.
These types of documents typically range anywhere from 20 pages to over 100 pages or longer depending on the complexity and detail needed. Some long reports may also come with appendices, research studies, graphs, and statistical data analysis.
Regardless of what kind of information is included, both long and short reports present information in a thorough manner that should leave a few questions unanswered about their topics for those who read them.
What are Internal Reports?
Internal reports are documents primarily used for communication within a company. They are often used to provide insights into the company’s performance, such as data on sales, customer satisfaction, and employee engagement.
Internal reports also provide management and employees with an overview of operations so that they can make informed decisions about future strategies and operations.
Internal reports may include written documents, presentations, or email messages sent out by the organization to its stakeholders.
What are External reports?
External reports are typically produced for external stakeholders such as customers, investors, and other third-party businesses.
These documents generally include financial statements or operational metrics that offer a more comprehensive look at the organization’s performance.
External reports can come in many forms including annual reports, marketing materials, public relations releases, and product reviews from customers or publications.
These documents help communicate the activities of an organization to its constituents and provide key insight into its operations
Conclusion
Open-source report tools are an invaluable resource for any business or individual looking to improve their reporting capabilities.
With so many tools available, it can be difficult to find the perfect tool for your needs. Fortunately, the twenty open source data reporting tools outlined in this blog provide a great starting point for anyone looking for an open-source reporting tool.
Whether you need a tool that is reporting-free, a simple, lightweight tool, or a more complex, feature-rich tool, you are sure to find something to help meet your reporting needs.
For robust reporting capabilities, consider trying out Dotnet Report. Start your free trial today and discover how DotNet Report can elevate your data reporting experience!
