Exporting data to CSV/Excel using either Javascript or Flash

Is there a way to convert JSON data to CSV/Excel solely using client-side technologies like Javascript or Flash, without any server interaction? Currently I'm using ZeroClipboard to copy the value to clipboard, but I want to directly open the generated value in Excel from the browser (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer, etc...).

Thank you.

Answer №1

When it comes to seamlessly exporting tables to Excel, the Jquery DataTables Table Tools plugin is the top choice for its cleanliness and simplicity. This plugin provides a grid that efficiently sorts, filters, orders, and pages data with just a few additional lines of code and two small files included. It offers export options to Excel, PDF, CSV, clipboard, and even printer.

All you need is this piece of code:

$(document).ready( function () {
    $('#example').dataTable( {
        "sDom": 'T<"clear">lfrtip',
        "oTableTools": {
        "sSwfPath": "/swf/copy_cvs_xls_pdf.swf"
        }
    } );
} );

The deployment process is quick, there are no browser constraints or server-side language requirements, and most importantly, it's incredibly easy to grasp. A win-win situation overall. However, one aspect where it may fall short is strict column formatting.

Answer №2

It seems that finding a foolproof method to handle file downloads client-side across all browsers and file sizes is quite challenging. The solutions available often rely on various methods, such as:

  • Using a Flash plugin (e.g. Downloadify), which may have bugs and lack mobile compatibility
  • Utilizing Data URL, which has limited support in Internet Explorer and comes with size restrictions
  • Leveraging HTML5, although download methods are not standardized across all browsers

Depending on your specific use case, one of the above options might suffice for your needs. If you're interested in exploring further details, here are some related posts on Stack Overflow:

  • Exporting an HTML table to a CSV file on the client side
  • Exporting data to CSV using jQuery

It's worth noting that a statement made by Ramandeep Singh in a part of the answer is inaccurate:

"So, quick to deploy, no browser limitations, no server-side language required, and most of all very EASY to understand."

For instance, DataTables actually relies on a flash plugin in its code base, making it incompatible with certain mobile browsers (e.g. iOS, recent Android devices without rooting, Windows 8 RT). Here is a reference link from their site discussing this issue:

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