Microsoft SQL Azure Reporting is a component of the Windows Azure Platform that brings SQL Server Reporting Services capabilities to the cloud. In my upcoming webinar, I’ll explain what cloud-based reporting is all about and the types of scenarios for which it makes sense. For example, although cloud-based reporting can be an attractive option for small-to-mid-sized businesses, there are also some compelling reasons why larger organizations might consider moving some reporting functions to the cloud.
SQL Azure Reporting is still in community preview mode, which means it is still evolving as a product, but that also means it is available for you to explore and evaluate at no additional charge. However, you will need a SQL Azure account, which provides you with cloud-based storage for your databases with or without a Windows Azure account. (With Windows Azure, you can host your own custom applications or run virtual machines in the cloud.) In my webinar, I’m going to show you how easy it is to set up your first SQL Azure database and to add SQL Azure Reporting. Currently, Microsoft is offering a three-month trial, which includes a 1 GB edition of a SQL Azure database, so you can try it for yourself after watching my demonstration.
SQL Azure Reporting does not match SQL Server Reporting Services feature for feature, but it does provide a solid platform that is perfect for certain reporting scenarios. During the webinar, I’ll show you exactly what SQL Azure Reporting can do for you, and I’ll point out its limitations. That way, you can make an informed decision about using it to deliver business intelligence from the cloud.
