How to Create SQL Database Reports in Microsoft Report Builder
A database report is a configured result of queries that presents applicable data for analysis and decision-making. Given its importance, it has to be done as correctly and efficiently as possible. In this post, we will talk about specific tools such as Microsoft Report Builder, and DBHawk, to help automate the process and increase the accuracy .of creating SQL database reports.
What is SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS)?
The reporting tool known as SSRS, or SQL Server Reporting Services, enables you to create structured reports with tables in the form of data, graphs, pictures, and charts. These reports are kept on a server that can be used whenever with user-defined settings. It belongs to the group of Microsoft SQL Server Services.
What is Microsoft Report Builder?
Microsoft's Report Builder is a tool for creating reports and dashboards based on data from a range of data sources, including SQL Server, Azure, Oracle, DB2, Teradata databases, SAP, XML, and ODBC sources. It offers a reliable report-authoring environment for power users and IT professionals. In addition to providing data tables and charts, Microsoft Report Builder also provides data visualizations such as sparklines, maps, data bars, and charts to aid in the creation of new insights. With this tool, you can create reports and shared datasets and publish report parts. If you need to reuse existing reports as a reference for making new reports, you can do that quickly by browsing the Report Part Gallery, which provides a grab-and-go experience.
Prerequisites for using Microsoft Report Builder
Microsoft Report Builder supports Windows operating systems from Windows 7 to Windows 10, including Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, and Windows Server 2012. Note that it needs Microsoft.NET Framework 4.6, 80MB of available hard disk space, and 512MB of RAM.
How does Microsoft Report Builder work?
The authoring tool is part of the Microsoft SQL Server, and it offers a simplified user environment with an interface like Microsoft Office. This way, it's easier and intuitive to create new reports or author the existing ones. All objects, such as gauges, sparklines, tablix, and tables from Reporting Services are accessible to the business user.
Development can occur in two ways: Reports are built-in BI Development Studio (BIDS) and can be customized in Microsoft Report Builder and vice versa. BIDS is for the developer to access more advanced features, while Report Builder may be more practical to business users looking to customize reports to suit specific requirements.
DBHawk: Powerful Alternative to Microsoft Report Builder
If you're looking for a more versatile way to build reports, consider leveraging a web-based Microsoft SQL Server Client Tool, such as DBHawk, that can be a better alternative to Microsoft SSMS. DBHawk is a SQL Service Reporting Service (SSRS) alternative with better pricing and everything included in a single tool. DBHawk provides features that enable the creation of various reports like parameterized and SQL query reports. It's a self-service BI and ad-hoc reporting tool that even lets you define Data Access Policy, build powerful SQL data dashboards and charts and connect to multiple data sources with just a few clicks. Register today for a free trial or request a free demo of DBHawk for more details.
