Microsoft® SQL Server™ 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies®

V.3.2. Understanding Report Definition Language (RDL)

Reports are defined with the Report Definition Language (RDL). RDL is the XML representation of a SQL Services Reporting Services (SSRS) report definition. It includes information on what data to retrieve and what way to display it.

The report definition can also include custom functions that spice up your reports. This includes adding simple items, such as pictures, page numbers, and dates — formatting them by modifying fonts and margins.

The report is created by using one of the tools, such as Report Designer, Report Builder 2.0, or Report Builder (creating a report from a report model). When the report is built, the RDL file is created. An RDL file is a text file that follows a specific XML schema required by the report server. When rendered, the report server interprets the RDL to display the report accurately.

Although it's possible to modify the RDL file directly, it's unlikely you'll do so. The graphical tools available make this much easier to do. However, if you're a developer, you might create third-party tools that programmatically create or modify RDL files. In that case, you need to learn the specifics of the RDL file.