Creating a dataset

The dataset is created automatically when a query is created and mapped to a report. You can also create a dataset independently, and then use it on a report later. This section describes the ways to create a dataset as follows:

Creating a dataset while creating report

When you create a report other than in the tabular layout, a dataset is created at the same time, either in blank or containing some data fields, depending on whether data fields are added to the report.

• If you specify to create the report in one of the following layout: Standard Banded Report, Table Report, Chart Report, Crosstab Report, Horizontal Banded Report or Mailing Label Report, in the Data screen of the corresponding report wizard:
  • Check the New radio button and specify the source on which the dataset will be created. Then,
    • If you click Finish directly in the report wizard, a blank dataset will be created.
    • If you go on to the next screens of the report wizard and select some data fields to display in the report, the dataset will contain the selected data fields.
  • Check the Existing radio button and click <Add Dataset...> in the dataset tree. In the New Dataset dialog, specify the source on which the dataset will be created, give a name for it, then click OK to create the dataset.
    • If you click Finish directly in the report wizard, the dataset will be blank.
    • If you go on to the next screens of the report wizard and select some data fields to display in the report, the dataset will contain the selected data fields.
• If you choose to create a blank report, you will be prompted with the Choose Data dialog to specify a dataset for the report.
  • Check the New radio button and specify the source on which the dataset will be created. Then click OK, and a blank dataset will be created.
  • Check the Existing radio button and click <Add Dataset...> in the dataset tree. In the New Dataset dialog, specify the source on which the dataset will be created, give a name for it, then click OK. A blank dataset will be created.

Creating a dataset from the Report menu

To create a dataset by using the Report menu, follow the steps below:

1. In JReport Designer, click Report > Dataset Management on the menu bar.
2. In the Dataset Management dialog, click the Add button.
3. In the New Dataset dialog, specify the data source on which the dataset will be built.
4. Enter the name of the dataset in the New Dataset Name field.
5. Click OK, and a blank dataset will be created.

Creating a dataset via the Resource View panel

Another way to create a dataset is by using the Resource View panel. To do this:

1. In the Resource View panel, choose <Choose Data From...> from the dataset drop-down list.
2. In the New Dataset dialog, specify the source on which the dataset will be built.
3. Enter the name of the dataset in the New Dataset Name field.
4. Click OK, and a blank dataset will be created.