SQL Server Reporting Services provides a browser based report manager and report viewer. To view reports users only require Internet Explorer and need no additional client licence other than SQL Server.

Users can download the report to a variety of formats including PDF, Exel, Word and have search and zoom features built-in to the viewer.

Reports can display lists, charts, collapsable groups, images, and drilldown into sub-reports. Any data that SQL Server can connect to can be included as well as ODBC connections.

Reports can also be generated automatically on a schedule or when the report data changes and can be sent directly to a specified user or share location in a variety of formats. This powerful feature allows reports to be automatically distributed around and outside the organisation in a very simple manner.

History snapshots can be retained of report output for comparison with later versions.