A report object is composed of a the following items:

You design a report by first defining the dataset, and then designing the visual layout.

Report Dataset

You use Report Dataset Designer in the Microsoft Dynamics NAV Development Environment to define the dataset of a report. The dataset determines the data that is extracted or calculated from the Microsoft Dynamics NAV database tables that can be used in a report. You build the report dataset by adding data items and columns. Typically, data items and columns correspond to fields in a table. When the report is run, each data item is iterated for all records in the underlying table. Filters are applied and the dataset is created.

For more information, see Defining the Report Dataset.

Report Layout

The visual layout determines the content and format of a report when it is viewed and printed. You build the layout of a report by arranging data items and columns and specifying the general format, such as text font and size. A report that is viewed, printed, or saved from a Microsoft Dynamics NAV client must have a report layout. There are two types of report layouts: client report definition (RDLC) layouts and Word layouts. layouts.

RDLC Report Layouts

To create an RDLC layout, you use Visual Studio Report Designer or Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services Report Builder. For more information, see Designing RDLC Report Layouts.

Word Report Layouts

You create Word layouts by using Word 2013. Word layouts are based a Word document that includes a custom XML parts that represents the report dataset. For more information, see Designing Word Report Layouts.

See Also