Mastering SSRS Report Design: Cross-Chart Filtering and Repeating Headers

SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) is not just about displaying data; it’s about presenting it in an interactive and user-friendly manner. This post explores two sophisticated features: creating cross-chart filtering refresh effects and ensuring column headings repeat across multiple pages.

Creating Cross-Chart Filtering in SSRS Reports

Cross-chart filtering is a powerful feature often seen in modern BI tools. While not natively supported in SSRS, you can achieve similar functionality with a creative workaround.

Steps for Cross-Chart Filtering:

• Step 1: Create a hidden/internal SSRS parameter, HotSelect.
• Step 2: Set up the ‘Report Action’ feature for data points in each chart, relaunching the report with the HotSelect parameter.
• Step 3: In each chart, set a Color Expression to dynamically highlight data points based on the HotSelect parameter value​​.

Repeating Column Headings Across Pages in SSRS Reports

Solution for Repeating Headers:

• Use the Advanced Mode in the report designer to access the Static Row Groups.
• Set the RepeatOnNewPage property to TRUE for each Static Group above the first actual group​​.

Implementing these advanced design techniques in SSRS can significantly enhance the usability and aesthetic appeal of your reports. These features not only improve user interaction but also ensure that reports are easier to understand and analyse.