Up A Tree (Moving to SQL 2005 RS)

Lots of people ask me about what is coming in the next release of SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services. I put together a white paper a few months back and it finally got posted to the web last week. There are a couple of things that aren't described there, such as the XML data extension that allows you to report data from a URL or web service, but it covers most of the new features.

Another thing that people ask is whether they can just use the new Reporting Services and not migrate to the new SQL Server. The answer is yes, you can use Reporting Services 2005 against SQL Server 2000 for either report contents or metadata. As I discussed previously, this is a little confusing as you have to purchase SQL Server "the product" even though you are not planning on using SQL Server "the relational database".

Another important thing to know is that SQL Server 2005 comes with a version of the Visual Studio 2005 shell so you don't need to purchase anything else to start building reports. If you purchase a full copy of VS after you install SQL 2005, the language projects get added to the VS shell.

I will be at Tech Ed in Orlando next week. I have two breakout talks (search for my name on the session list). I am also working the cabana and booth so feel free to stop by and say high. I might even give you a Spinny frisbee.