Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Service

by AJ Graham

Overview

Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Service

One of the limitations of relational databases is that there is no easy way for end users to access their data. Starting with SQL Server 2000, Microsoft introduced SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS). SSRS was built into SQL Server and Visual Studio to give developers a tool to easily produce professional-looking reports in a short amount of time.
Report Data

Before the report is created, a stored procedure or database query should be written in order to retrieve the data to be displayed. Reporting Services allows the use of parameters, although they are not required.

Report Design and Layout

Reporting Services uses Microsoft Visual Studio to handle the creation of reports. The developer can either start from a blank sheet or use the wizard to pick a style. The layout is driven by Visual Studio's Tool Box, with items including graphs, tables, text boxes and lists.
Deploying the Report

Reporting Services is an option when installing SQL Server, and this will need to be completed before any reports can be deployed. The wizard will walk you through how to deploy the report to your newly created SQL Reporting Services solution.
Viewing the Report

Once you have deployed the report, you are ready to view it using SQL Server Report Manager. Report Manager is a User Interface that gives you an easy access list view to all of your reports. Simply browse the folders to find the report you want to view and click on it.
Printing and Exporting Reports

Reporting Services not only allows the user to view the reports, but save them as well. The reports can be printed out or exported into an assortment of different popular file formats such as Excel, Acrobat, Word and other raw data formats.