Report Generator

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Note (3/97): We are currently upgrading the Report Generator to be able to more generally handle HTML elements including tables, images, and wide preformatted text. An HTML-->TeX-->PostScript filter is also being developed that can create a high-quality printable report. Watch this space for new developments!

You can Begin Immediately, or read the following to become acquainted with the Report Generator before using it.

Purpose: The purpose of the Report Generator is to automate the process of collecting a number of WWW documents/graphs into a single coherent document. The primary use of this tool is to create such a document for printing. Previously, if a user wanted to collect a set of up-to-date information in preparation for a meeting, he or she would have to manually browse a number of different pages at different web sites around the region, and print each document separately. Using the Report Generator, the user can simply select documents of interest from the provided checklist, hit the button, and current versions of the requested documents are automatically downloaded and combined into a single printable and/or browsable document.

Here are a few useful tips...

Selecting Graphs

In the top-level menu, you may select one or more general categories of graphical information. Based on your selections, you will then be presented with detailed lists of those categories selected. You can select one or more items from each sub-menu box.

Printing

Once you have selected your graphs, and the joined document has been returned to your web browser window, you may use the print capabilities of your browser to do the printing. Some browsers (e.g., XMosaic and XNetscape) allow the user to save a document as a PostScript file. In other cases, you may be limited to using the "Print" button on the browser, in which case you will need to configure your browser to interact correctly with your local printer. We are currently working to provide the option of generating PostScript directly; this will allow greater control of page layouts and lead to higher-quality printouts.

Automation

It is possible to create automated macro scripts or bookmarks that will allow users to print the same package on a weekly or other regular basis without manually selecting the items each time.

New Items

If there are any specific information products you would like to see added to the Report Generator's menu, please let us know. You can provide your input using the comment form.

Use the Report Generator Now...

E-mail your comments and questions to: Nancy Yun (Nancy.9.Yun@usace.army.mil)
File TMT/reptgen.html Last Modified 02/27/97