Generally speaking it is possible to use all remote views in many scenarios, but you should be aware of the pros / cons of SPT and stored procedures. The most frequent need to use SPT and/or stored procedures is speed.

As far as querying remote data, take a look at our Query By Form product (QBF Builder). It provides a visually stunning interface to query with (your form of course <g>).

And it handles all of the nasties of mapping the criteria to view parameters, or better yet it uses our ViewLink technology to provide totally dynamic criteria in your remote views.

There is a demo and trial version available in the files section.