Filtering Data in a Report

You can limit the data retrieved from a data source by using filters or query parameters. The method you choose depends on the capabilities of the data source, performance requirements, persistence of the dataset, and how complex you want the report to be.

Using Filters

You can apply filters to a dataset, data region, or data grouping. Filters limit the data that is displayed to the user after the data is retrieved from the data source. You can use filters when the data source does not support query parameters or when persisted reports, such as snapshots, are run by users who view different sets of the data. The report data is saved to the report server so that any number of users can set report parameters to filter the stored data for the information they want to see in the report.

Because of the amount of data saved and then filtered on the report server, the report may not perform as well as a report that filters data at the source using query parameters.

To view instructions about working with filters, see:

Using Query Parameters

To filter data at the source, use query parameters. Report Designer will attempt to detect any query parameters and automatically create report parameters that supply the query parameters with data. You can also manually associate query parameters with report variables through the Parameters tab of the Dataset dialog box.

To view instructions about associating query parameters with values on the report, see:

Not all data sources support query parameters. In this case, you may want to use a filter.

See Also

Concepts

Working with Data in a Report Layout

Other Resources

Working with Parameters in Reporting Services

Help and Information

Getting SQL Server 2005 Assistance

Change History

Release History

14 April 2006

Changed content:
  • Removed dynamic query information.