Working with Matrices (Report Builder 1.0)
In a matrix report, data is arranged into columns and rows. The number of rows and the number of columns changes in a matrix report depending on the data returned. A matrix can have dynamic columns and rows and static columns and rows. Matrices provide functionality similar to cross-tabs and pivot tables.
When the report runs, dynamic columns expand across the page for as many columns as there are groups. Dynamic rows expand down the page. The data that appear in the report are summary values of data based on the intersections of columns and rows.
For example, suppose you want to create a report that displays the quarterly sales for the past year for customers in the Northwest sales territory. You would probably add the following fields to your matrix design: Territory, Customer Name, Ship Year, and Sum Total Due. To return just the data for the Northwest Territory, you would also need to apply a filter. Your report layout design looks similar to the following image.
.gif "Matrix template with fields.")
When you run this report, it looks similar to the following image.
.gif "A matrix report with data.")
Nesting Dynamic Columns and Rows
You can add multiple dynamic columns and rows to your matrix report. Dynamic columns and rows are used to group data by field. When you add a new dynamic column or row, the new header is nested within the original header. When you run the report, the new header is repeated within the original header. For example, suppose the Ship Quarter field is added to the matrix report in the previous example. When the report is run, four quarter columns are nested below each year column similar to the following image.
.gif "A rendered matrix report with nested columns.")
See Also