Database dates and times

All dates stored in the HelpMaster SQL Server database are stored as Universal coordinated time, or UTC. This allows HelpMaster to be able be used in multiple time-zones. When date data is viewed by the application, or reports, the UTC date is adjusted to give the time in the users local time.

Implications for reporting

All of the built-in reports that HelpMaster ships with will display all date information in the local time. If you have created custom reporting solutions, or are accessing the HelpMaster SQL Server database directly, you will need to update your reports and/or database queries.

• For Crystal Reports developers, you can use the ShiftDateTime function. Refer to the Crystal Reports help file for further information about this or Dealing with date data stored in UTC
• For other reporting tools, please refer to your vendor/developer regarding transformation of UTC dates to local times.

PRD Software also offer a custom report development as part of a professional service.

Implications for custom development using the HelpMaster API

If you have developed custom code using the HelpMaster API, you do not need to update anything. All date transformation will be performed via the API. If you have access the HelpMaster SQL Server database directly, you will need to update your code to transform the UTC dates into local times.

For further information about this, please contact PRD Software

Implications for workflow using SQL or PowerShell scripting

See Also

Crystal Reports - Dealing with date data stored in UTC