Parameters in Crystal Reports serve the purpose of allowing users to dynamically filter and customize the data displayed in a report. They provide a way to prompt users for input at runtime, enabling them to specify criteria for data retrieval and report generation. Here are some key purposes and benefits of using parameters in Crystal Reports:

Dynamic Filtering : Parameters enable users to define filter criteria to selectively retrieve data from the underlying database. By setting up parameters, users can specify conditions such as date ranges, specific values, or text patterns to filter the data displayed in the report. This allows for dynamic and ad-hoc data filtering without modifying the report design.

User Interactivity : Parameters enhance user interactivity by allowing users to input values at runtime. Users can enter parameters through input fields, drop-down lists, or calendars, providing a way to customize the report output based on their specific requirements. This interactive approach empowers users to explore data in different ways and retrieve personalized reports.

Flexible Report Output : With parameters, Crystal Reports can generate different report outputs based on the user's input. By adjusting parameter values, users can retrieve different subsets of data, filter records, or apply different calculations and aggregations. This flexibility enables the generation of customized reports tailored to specific needs or varying scenarios. Report Reusability : Parameters enhance report reusability by allowing the same report template to be used with different input parameters. Rather than creating multiple reports for each specific scenario, parameters enable users to modify the behavior of a report by providing different input values. This saves time and effort by reusing the same report design with varying data criteria.

Prompts and Documentation : Parameters in Crystal Reports can be configured with prompts, which provide instructions or explanations to the user about the expected input. Prompts can include text, examples, or guidelines, ensuring that users understand the purpose and format of the parameter values. This aids in user guidance and improves the usability of the report.

Report Automation : Parameters also play a role in report automation. By programmatically setting parameter values through application code or scheduling tools, reports can be generated automatically with predefined criteria. This enables scheduled or batch report generation, reducing manual intervention and ensuring consistent and timely report delivery.