A report model file is a metadata description of the database that is being referenced by the data source view. When the report model file is generated, entities, roles, fields, and folders are automatically created. Typically, these entities, fields, and folders relate back to the columns and their data in the database. The model items are automatically generated and usually reference business names that Report Builder users are familiar with.
The contents of the entities and folders are automatically detected too. Field variations are created for you, if those options are selected when running the wizard. After running the Report Model Design wizard, the model can be published to the report catalog, assigned the appropriate role permissions, and then used in Report Builder and Report Designer. To make it even easier for users to create reports using this model, you can further refine the contents of the model.
.gif)
Refining a Report Model
Once you have created your report model, you will probably want to refine it before publishing it. For example, you can reorganize the model items, rename items, and add additional entities, folders, and perspectives to the model. The items within the model can by further refined, too, by reorganizing their contents or by adding folders, source fields, expressions, and roles.
After you build and deploy your model, you might have to adjust the model's contents based on the feedback you receive from your users. You can open the report model file and adjust it as you need to.
Refreshing a Report Model
If the underlying schema has changed or if the database has changed, you can refresh the model or refresh an item within the model by running Autogenerate. When Autogenerate runs, it never overwrites the entire model; it simply detects the added items and incorporates them into the model. Autogenerate does not detect deleted or modified database items; therefore, you need to manually delete the model item(s). Otherwise, you will see an error when using the actual field in Report Builder or Report Designer.
.gif) Caution |
|---|
Do not publish a new model with the same name because you will invalidate existing reports that are generated against this model. If you do create a new model with the same name and try to publish the model, you will see an error message. Always work on the same model to ensure that the IDs remain the same. |