Can I Use Bold Reports Without a Database Connection?

Bold Reports is a versatile reporting platform that supports creating, viewing, and embedding pixel-perfect RDL reports without requiring a traditional database connection, such as SQL Server or MySql. This article explains how to use Bold Reports with non-database data sources and provides steps to set up such reports.

Can Bold Reports Be Used Without a Database?

Yes, Bold Reports can be used without a database connection. The platform supports various data sources, including static files and web services, enabling flexible report design for scenarios where a database is not needed or available.

Supported Non-Database Data Sources

You can leverage the following options to create reports without a database:

• Static File Data Sources: Connect to files such as JSON, XML, CSV, or Excel . These can be embedded within the report or accessed from a shared location, ideal for offline or self-contained reports.
• Web-Based Data Sources: Use Web API, OData, or REST endpoints to fetch data dynamically without a direct database connection.
• Business Objects or Custom Data: Integrate with in-memory objects, expressions, or custom data processing extensions for runtime-generated data.
• No-Data Reports: Design reports using parameters or static content for simple layouts like invoices or forms, without any data source.

Steps to Set Up a Report Without a Database

Follow these steps in the Bold Reports Designer to create a report using a non-database data source:

1. Open the Data Sources panel in the Bold Reports Designer.
2. Select a non-database data source type, such as CSV, JSON, or Web API.
   
   
3. Configure the connection details:
   • For file-based sources, provide the file path (e.g., for EXCEL or JSON files).
   • For web-based sources, enter the API URL and any required credentials.
     
     
     
     
     
4. Create datasets by defining queries or expressions based on the selected data source.
5. Design the report visuals using the Bold Reports Designer tools.

Additional Considerations

• Compatibility: These non-database options work seamlessly in both self-service and embedded reporting modes and are supported in the latest Bold Reports versions (e.g., 10.1.11 as of 2025).
• Scalability: If report complexity increases, you can later integrate database connections without redesigning existing reports.

Conclusion

Bold Reports provides robust support for creating reports without a database connection, using static files, web APIs, or custom data. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of reporting needs, from simple static layouts to dynamic data-driven reports.

For further assistance, refer to the Bold Reports Documentation or contact Bold Reports support.