We have implemented a flexible querying tool for a client to help them search and retrieve their business data. This solution integrates the Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services Web Service with a .NET Windows desktop application to provide a flexible and intuitive search, sort and export system for their data.

We are able to describe this business search wizard generically although we are unable to release specific details of our client’s customized product.

Requirements

To provide an application to allow staff to query their company’s data with the following specification:

Selection specification

• A simple and intuitive selection screen
• Several parameters to select from (15)
• Easy selection (and de-selection) of criteria with drop down choice boxes where possible and a text translation for all coded fields
• Ability to select more than one value from a parameter where appropriate
• Date picker settings for date ranges
• Changeable default settings for all criteria
• Easy resetting of criteria to defaults
• Ability to choose which field set to be displayed
• Buttons to run or abort a selection

Display specification

• Data displayed in a data sheet manner on a new screen (Microsoft Excel style) after the selection is run
• A pre-determined list of fields returned and displayed in a pre-determined order
• Ability to sort on all or most fields after they are displayed
• Navigation to return to selection screen in order to refine selection
• A count of the records displayed

Export specification

• Button to export displayed fields to Microsoft Excel or other specified package
• Ability to choose the file name and location of the exported file
• Navigation to return to another screen

Solution

We integrated the SQL Server Reporting Services web service with a Windows Forms .NET application to produce a fast, easy to use, interface for our client to perform ad hoc data searches. Two screens were provided:

• Search Criteria interface screen with a wide range of named fields to select: some with drop-down lists; some with data range options and some facilitating multi-choice selection.
• Results Display Screen showing the returned records in datasheet format with options to automatically export to Microsoft Excel.

Benefits

• Users will be able to perform queries themselves without waiting for the availability of a SQL programmer.
• Users will be able to refine and fine tune their searches enabling them to directly answer management questions.
• Users will be able to sort the data file on any field of their choice.
• Users will be able to export the data to a file of their choice.
• Users will be able to spot and report data inconsistencies before data is released.

Overview

A search wizard is a valuable tool for any organization that has a database at the core of its business. It enables staff to answer the majority of questions that occur from day-to-day without needing to understand the database structure or language.

Please read the case study on the Microsoft site for more information.