Create a Linked Report

A linked report is a report server item that provides an access point to an existing report. Conceptually, it is similar to a program shortcut that you use to run a program or open a file.

A linked report is derived from an existing report and retains the original's report definition. A linked report always inherits report layout and data source properties of the original report. All other properties and settings can be different from those of the original report, including security, parameters, location, subscriptions, and schedules.

You can create a linked report when you want to create additional versions of an existing report. For example, you could use a single regional sales report to create region-specific reports for all of your sales territories.

Although linked reports are typically based on parameterized reports, a parameterized report is not required. You can create linked reports whenever you want to deploy an existing report with different settings.

To create a linked report

1. In the web portal, navigate to the desired report, right-click on it and select Manage from the drop down menu.

2. On the Manage <reportname> page, select Create linked report.

3. Enter a name for the new linked report. Optionally enter a description.

4. To select a different folder for the report, select the ellipsis button (...) to the right of Location. Navigate to the new folder for the report and select Select. If you do not select a different folder, the linked report is created in the current folder.

5. Select Create. The linked report is created.

6. Under Advanced, select a different Report timeout value if desired, and select Apply to save the changes.

   A linked report's icon differs from other items managed by a report server. The following icon indicates a linked report:

   

See also

Reporting Services Concepts (SSRS)
The web portal of a report server (SSRS Native Mode)