Reporting in Dynamics 365
Dynamics 365 supports multiple reporting technologies, each suited for different use cases. Understanding when to use SSRS vs Power BI Report Builder helps you deliver the right solution for each reporting requirement.
Both tools have their place in the Dynamics 365 ecosystem, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs.
SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS)
SSRS is the traditional reporting engine for Dynamics 365, providing pixel-perfect, paginated reports ideal for operational and transactional documents.
SSRS strengths
- Pixel-perfect layout: Precise control over report layout for print-ready documents
- Paginated output: Reports designed for page-by-page viewing and printing
- Operational reports: Invoices, quotes, orders, and other transactional documents
- Embedded in D365: Direct integration with Dynamics 365 forms and views
- Parameter-driven: Complex parameterization for filtered reporting
SSRS limitations
- No interactivity - static reports only
- Requires FetchXML or SQL for data
- Limited visualization options
- No cross-source data blending
- Desktop tools required for authoring
Power BI Report Builder
Power BI Report Builder creates paginated reports within the Power BI ecosystem, combining SSRS-style layouts with Power BI's distribution and sharing capabilities.
Power BI Report Builder strengths
- Cloud distribution: Publish to Power BI service for web and mobile access
- Power BI integration: Embed paginated reports in Power BI dashboards
- Multiple data sources: Connect to Dataverse, SQL, and other sources
- Subscription & scheduling: Automated report delivery via email
- Modern licensing: Part of Power BI Premium capacity
Power BI Report Builder limitations
- Requires Power BI Premium or per-user license
- Not embedded directly in D365 forms
- Separate tool from Power BI Desktop
- Learning curve for new users
When to use each tool
Choose SSRS when:
- Creating operational documents (invoices, quotes, orders)
- Reports must run directly from D365 forms
- Pixel-perfect printing is required
- No Power BI licensing available
- Complex sub-reports and drill-through needed
Choose Power BI Report Builder when:
- Reports will be distributed via Power BI service
- Scheduled email subscriptions are needed
- Combining data from multiple sources
- Modern cloud-based deployment preferred
- Integration with Power BI dashboards required
Migrating from SSRS to Power BI
Organizations with existing SSRS reports can migrate to Power BI Report Builder while preserving layout and functionality.
Migration steps:
- Export SSRS report as RDL file
- Open RDL in Power BI Report Builder
- Update data source connections
- Test and validate output
- Publish to Power BI service
Migration considerations:
- FetchXML data sources need conversion
- Custom code may require updates
- Sub-reports need individual migration
- Validate licensing requirements
Reporting best practices
Key practices:
- Choose tool based on distribution requirements
- Optimize queries for performance
- Use parameters for flexible reporting
- Design for print and screen as appropriate
- Document report logic and data sources
- Version control report definitions
Conclusion
Both SSRS and Power BI Report Builder serve important roles in Dynamics 365 reporting. SSRS remains the choice for embedded operational documents within Dynamics 365, while Power BI Report Builder excels for cloud-distributed paginated reports.
Evaluate your requirements for distribution, interactivity, and licensing to choose the right tool for each reporting scenario. Many organizations use both tools to meet their complete reporting needs.