Hi all,
We just developed a new openerp module that allows the
creation of reports using Latex, and we wanted to share the
information with you.
What is Latex?
TeX is a computer program for typesetting documents,
created by Donald Knuth. It takes a suitably prepared computer
file and converts it to a form which may be printed on many
kinds of printers, including dot-matrix printers, laser
printers and high-resolution typesetting machines. LaTeX is a
set of macros for TeX that aims at reducing the user's task to
the sole role of writing the content, LaTeX taking care of all
the formatting process. A number of well-established
publishers now use TeX or LaTeX to typeset books and
mathematical journals. It is also well appreciated by users
caring about typography, consistent formatting, efficient
collaborative writing and open formats.
Why we used Latex?
Well... we ran into some problems creating reports using
RML and WebKit, and we thought it made sense to develop a
module for creating reports using LaTex (we have some
experience doing that).
How do I use the module?
The OpenERP-addon combines "Mako Template language" and
Latex to generate high-end quality reports. Latex is not a
simple language but you don't need to be an expert for
creating simple reports. There is a learning curve involved in
using Latex, but the productivity gains of using it are very
high.
You must install Latex in your server to make it works. In
debian and ubuntu you can execute:
apt-get install texlive-latex-base
texlive-fonts-recommended
Where can I learn Latex?
Where can I download the openerp module?
If you feel like trying it or documenting or suggesting new
functionalities or helping with the development of the module,
you are welcome to do so,
Any comments or thoughts, don't hesitate to e-mail the
developers
Cheers,
