Database Reference
In-Depth Information
Feature-wise there is little difference between these two tools other than the ability
to consume Shared Report Parts. Report Builder can be used to create and consume
Shared Report Parts, while Report Designer can only be used to create and publish
Shared Report Parts. However, from a development perspective, when you need to
churn out a bunch of reports or when there are complex development scenarios (for
example, subreports, drill-through requirements, and so on), it is usually easier to
work in Report Designer.
Server features and functionality
SQL Server Reporting Services is a server-based reporting system with an application
layer responsible for the authentication, processing, rendering, and delivery of
reports to users. Depending on the installation mode, the application layer might
also be responsible for the security of reporting-related objects stored on the server
such as reports, shared data sources, shared datasets, and shared report parts.
In addition to the items described below, which are fairly standard across most
enterprise-level standard reporting systems, Reporting Services also includes
a number of other features that provide substantial gains in performance and
user experience. These features include items such as subscriptions, caching,
and snapshots, as well as a new feature known as data driven alerts.
In the rest of this section, we will explore the primary server-level features and
functionality offered by the SQL Server Reporting Services.
Choosing an installation mode - SharePoint
Integrated versus Native
While planning a SQL Server Reporting Services installation, you will need to
choose between the Native and SharePoint Integrated modes. The report authoring
and consumption experience is nearly identical between the two modes—and so
the decision typically comes down to whether or not you already have an existing
SharePoint farm or are planning to deploy one.
•
Native
: When this mode selected, a standalone web application is installed
and provides a user interface to manage the configuration of the report
server, folder and report settings, and security access controls. Users will
typically access reports directly through the standalone report server.
•
SharePoint Integrated
: When this mode selected, the entire configuration,
security access controls, and report rendering is managed through
SharePoint. Users will typically access reports through SharePoint
sites and document libraries.
