Sql Server Reporting Services Formatting

How to Easily Shade Alternating Rows in SQL Server Reporting Services

Do you ever find yourself wrestling with the readability of your SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) reports? If you have large datasets, it quickly becomes difficult for viewers to track the rows, leading to potential confusion and mistakes. One effective way to enhance readability is to shade alternating rows in your reports. In this blog post, we will guide you through the straightforward process of achieving this using SSRS.

The Problem: Enhancing Readability

When presenting data in a table format, especially in lengthy reports, it can be challenging for the audience to follow along. Alternating row colors, also known as “zebra striping,” can make it easier to distinguish between rows. By adding these subtle color variations, you’ll help your readers focus on the data without getting lost.

The Solution: Using Expressions for Background Color

To shade alternating rows in your SSRS report, you can use expressions within the BackgroundColor property of the table row. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Locate the Table Row’s Background Color Property

  1. Open Your Report Designer: Ensure that your report is open in SQL Server Report Builder or Business Intelligence Development Studio.
  2. Select the Table: Click on the table in which you want to apply the alternating row colors.
  3. Access Properties: Right-click on the row handle (the gray area to the left of the row) to open the properties menu.

Step 2: Use the Expression Builder

  1. Select BackgroundColor: In the properties menu, look for the BackgroundColor property.
  2. Choose “Expression…”: Click on the drop-down next to BackgroundColor and select “Expression…”

Step 3: Implement the Correct Expression

You can use the following expression to alternate your row colors:

= IIf(RowNumber(Nothing) Mod 2 = 0, "Silver", "Transparent")
  • Explanation:
    • RowNumber(Nothing): This function returns the number of the current row within the dataset.
    • Mod 2: This operation checks whether the row number is odd or even.
    • "Silver" and "Transparent": The expression specifies that even rows should be colored silver, and odd rows will remain transparent (default color).

Alternative for .NET 3.5+

If you’re working with .NET 3.5 or higher, you can use a slightly simpler expression:

= If(RowNumber(Nothing) Mod 2 = 0, "Silver", "Transparent")

Additional Tips

  • Flexibility: You can customize the colors to match your brand or personal preferences by replacing “Silver” with any valid color name or hex code.
  • Application: This expression can be applied beyond just background colors; it’s versatile for customizing other aspects of your report.
  • Test Your Report: Always preview your report to ensure that the changes reflect as expected.

Conclusion

Shading alternating rows in SQL Server Reporting Services can dramatically enhance the visual clarity of your reports. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can significantly improve the user experience for anyone reading your data.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with colors and styles to make your reports not only functional but also visually appealing!

By implementing this straightforward approach, you can turn complex data into easily interpretable insights with just a few clicks. Happy reporting!