SSRS 2016: How to Access Reports Using XML URLs
SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) 2016 offers a powerful and flexible way to share reports through web URLs. One of the most common and effective methods is using XML URLs. This approach provides a standardized way to access report data, making it easy to embed reports into other applications or systems.
What are XML URLs?
In SSRS 2016, XML URLs are a specific format for requesting report data and rendering it in a desired format. They follow a predefined structure that includes the report server name, report path, parameters (if any), and the desired output format.
Why Use XML URLs?
XML URLs offer several advantages:
- Standardized Format: This makes it easier to integrate reports into different applications and systems.
- Flexibility: You can specify parameters, output formats, and other options through the URL itself.
- Direct Access: Users can directly access reports through a URL, simplifying the process.
- Integration: XML URLs can be used within web applications, dashboards, and other tools for displaying reports.
Understanding the Structure
An XML URL in SSRS 2016 typically follows this structure:
http:///ReportServer/Pages/ReportViewer.aspx?%2f%2f?rs:Command=Render&rs:Format=&rs:ParameterValues=
Let's break down the components:
<ReportServerName>: The name of the server hosting the SSRS instance.<ReportPath>: The folder structure where the report is located.<ReportName>: The name of the report file.rs:Command: Specifies the action to be performed, typically "Render" for displaying the report.rs:Format: Defines the desired output format, such as PDF, Excel, or HTML.rs:ParameterValues: Used for passing parameters to the report (if any).
Creating an XML URL
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Identify the Report: Locate the report you want to access.
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Define the URL: Construct the XML URL using the report server name, report path, report name, and desired output format. For instance, if you want to access a report named "SalesReport" located in the folder "Sales" with a PDF output format, the URL would be:
http:///ReportServer/Pages/ReportViewer.aspx?%2fSales%2fSalesReport?rs:Command=Render&rs:Format=PDF -
Include Parameters (if necessary): If your report requires parameters, you'll need to add them to the
rs:ParameterValuespart of the URL. Use the parameter name and value. For example:http:///ReportServer/Pages/ReportViewer.aspx?%2fSales%2fSalesReport?rs:Command=Render&rs:Format=PDF&rs:ParameterValues=Region=West
Using XML URLs in Your Applications
XML URLs can be used within various environments, including web applications, scripting languages, and dashboards. You can embed these URLs into hyperlinks, buttons, or other interactive elements to allow users to access reports.
Example:
Imagine you have a web application displaying sales data. You can use an XML URL to integrate an SSRS report into your application:
View Sales Report
Tips for Using XML URLs:
- Security: Ensure the report server is appropriately configured with security settings to control access to reports.
- Parameter Handling: For reports with parameters, properly handle parameter values within the URL.
- URL Encoding: Use appropriate encoding for special characters within the URL.
- Testing: Thoroughly test the XML URLs to ensure they function correctly and display reports as expected.
Conclusion
XML URLs provide a powerful and versatile way to access and integrate SSRS 2016 reports into other systems and applications. By understanding the structure and implementing them properly, you can leverage the capabilities of SSRS to create dynamic and accessible reporting solutions.