A Java proxy

Summary

Generating high-quality print output from a Web application is often difficult because browsers provide only limited control over a document's layout. Adjusting page margins or positioning document elements at a precise location on the page proves impossible when printing from the browser. When preprinted forms are being used or when page flow must be controlled tightly, you must use a server-based document generation engine. Many such technologies and products are available. A solution should provide good report development productivity, a GUI report designer, be highly scalable, perform well (especially when rendering PDF documents for concurrent sessions), and come with an attractive price tag. We tested and benchmarked several products and settled for Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services (RS).
RS can easily be integrated and deployed in a Microsoft-centric environment, but making it accessible to a Java Web application requires some work. This article provides some guidance in integrating RS with your Java Web application. (2,100 words; January 10, 2005)