Reporting on multi-databases

[TMPadmin]

Programming and databases are not my strong point but I have a client who needs to gather data from a SQL database and a Borland database. They have several systems and what my plan is; grab information from a SQL database, grab information from a borland database, grab info from probably another database onto a centralized SQL server. Then write a frontend or use something existing with ease of use for business managers to get the data they need. Most reports will be canned (by us) then daily fed to the key users.

Does this sound difficult from a DB end? I know programmers can work magic in many ways so I'm not worried about that. Can these data iimports be automated?

Thanks for any help.
TMP

 

[KB]

SQL Server has DTS packages which can automate the data import and can be scheduled. You could also create reports in Crystal or SQL Server Reporting Services that grab the data from all of the servers in one report.

 

[znaps]

Try Crystal Reports, it was made for this sort of thing.

 

[EagleKeeper]

Originally posted by: znaps
Try Crystal Reports, it was made for this sort of thing.

As those above have stated, use a report generator unless you need to manipulate the data rather than just report it.

 

[TMPadmin]

I got some new information on this project just after I posted this morning. Essentially we have a Panicle system and a Site Watch system. Plus numerous access db's and several spreadsheets for collecting data. I need do to an ETL into a centralized database then customize reports from that as automated processes. Any suggestions on ETL? The access and excel data entry will be replaced with new custom programs which will feed into the central DB.