C# .NET Charts Libraries/Code?

Question

I am creating some reporting software that will generate excel workbooks with charts and all related data. Besides the built in libraries and .NET Office integration features, is there any other tools or code that people found useful to creating similar projects?

EDIT: I am targeting winforms.

Answer 1

SQL Server Reporting Services.

Answer 2

I've used ZedGraph before, and I found it pretty good for a free library.

Answer 3

I've worked with the Office Open XML Library (portal), which allows you to create Excel files without Office interop. Its a little hard to learn, since you have to learn the underlying document format, and Version 2.0 is still in CTP until Office14 comes out, but its a fast (performant) and free solution.

Answer 4

SpreadSheetGear I never used it but it is advertised alot

Answer 5

I'm using Steema TeeChart.Net. It is a very powerful chart but it is not free and not cheap (Around $760 per developer).

Answer 6

If you are not already aware... Microsoft released these free charting controls for .NET

http://weblogs.asp.net/scottgu/archive/2008/11/24/new-asp-net-charting-control-lt-asp-chart-runat-quot-server-quot-gt.aspx

Answer 7

SpreadsheetGear for .NET is an Excel compatible spreadsheet component for .NET that supports spreadsheet features as well as Excel compatible charting. You did not specify whether you are targeting WinForms or ASP.NET, but SpreadsheetGear can be used with both.

You can see a live chart gallery with charts being rendered by SpreadsheetGear here and download the evaluation software here.

Disclaimer: I own SpreadsheetGear LLC

Answer 8

Syncfusion has a native .NET utility that allows for spreadsheet automation (including charting capabilities) without going through Excel.

The bundle isn't cheap or easy to use, but it is powerful.