When it comes to creating reports, SSRS (SQL Server Reporting Services) is a popular choice for many businesses. Not only does it allow for the creation of visually appealing reports, but it also offers the option to export those reports to PDF format. However, sometimes when exporting a report to PDF, the formatting may get distorted, making it difficult to read and understand the data presented. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to fit an SSRS report in PDF, ensuring that your reports are well-presented and easy to comprehend.
First and foremost, it is essential to design your SSRS report with PDF in mind. This means considering the page size and orientation of your PDF document. By default, the page size for exporting to PDF in SSRS is set to A4. However, if your report contains a large amount of data, it is advisable to change the page size to A3 to avoid overcrowding and maintain the readability of your report. Additionally, you can also change the orientation to landscape if your report contains wide tables or charts.
Next, it is crucial to adjust the margins of your report. The default margin setting in SSRS is 0.5 inches, which may cause some elements of your report to get cut off when exporting to PDF. It is recommended to increase the left and right margins to at least 1 inch to ensure that all the contents of your report are visible in the PDF. You can also decrease the top and bottom margins to allow for more space for your report's content.
Another way to fit an SSRS report in PDF is by using the FitProportional property. This feature automatically resizes the report to fit the page size and orientation specified. To use this, go to the report properties, navigate to the Page Setup tab, and check the FitProportional option. This will ensure that your report fits the page without getting distorted.
Additionally, if your report contains large tables or charts, you can consider shrinking them to fit the page. This can be done by adjusting the size of the text and the column widths. You can also try changing the font size or using a condensed font to fit more data in a smaller space. However, be cautious not to make the text too small, as it may become unreadable.
In some cases, you may need to adjust the report's layout to fit in the PDF. For example, if your report contains a large number of columns, you can consider splitting them into multiple tables or using a tablix with multiple columns. This will help in reducing the overall width of the report, making it easier to fit in the PDF.
Lastly, you can also use the Print Layout option in the SSRS report viewer to preview how your report will look when printed. This will give you an idea of how your report will appear in the PDF and allow you to make any necessary adjustments before exporting.
In conclusion, fitting an SSRS report in PDF requires careful planning and consideration. By following these tips, you can ensure that your reports are well-presented and easy to read, even in PDF format. Remember to always design your report with PDF in mind, adjust the margins, use the FitProportional property, shrink large elements, and adjust the layout if needed. With these techniques, you can create professional-looking reports that are perfectly tailored for PDF export.
