We don't have a tool to access the backend read-only. We should get a tool instead of using the BIP, where there are limitations on querying the number of reports. It would be good if Oracle could provide an easy-to-use read-only tool to access the database. Using the BIP model to run a query is time-consuming.

Earlier, we used to have a Toad SQL developer. Whenever you run the BIP data model, you get only 100 to 200 records simultaneously, which you cannot extract without building a report. A flexible tool will help developers look at the data instead of going into BIP, building the report, having a layout, and then creating the report to extract your data.

The GUI could use some improvement.

The pricing can be reduced and some changes could be made to the interface.

I absolutely hate the layout with all the little lines, the different panels, and if you bump the wrong thing just a smidgen, it no longer compiles. You've brought it outside of its area of focus. It says, "We're done here." 

I've looked at a couple of the E-Business Suite reports, and there's no way to fit it all on one screen. When it throws that layout on the screen, you would need a monitor the size of a wall to be able to see everything. It's like using a magnifying glass, and you're seeing only a tiny bit of it. For me, I lose context. That would be the biggest complaint I have there. 

Otherwise, slap this here, and that there, and this here, and you're ready to go. Depending on how detailed the report is, and how much information you're actually putting on there, that leads to the, "Where's this?" It's all kind of a confusing mess, and that would be the biggest problem area for me.

I really don't like much about Oracle Reports. It's only value, I think, is that it integrates well with our existing Oracle products. The Grid function, which actually draws out the reports, is not good. One little mistake will cause everything to fall apart, and then you have to rebuild from the beginning.

Depending on which variables are being used in the report, there can be issues related to security.