I know, it is strange, but it is true...When you create Reporting Services reports that run off of an Analysis Services data source with parameters, Reporting Services automatically creates datasets for each parameter value being passed in. Yes, that's right! One dataset for EACH parameter! Furthermore, to make things a little more strange, the datasets are hidden. It does make sense if you think about it. The parameter selection inside your analysis services dataset has many selectable values. As such, the parameters need to be drop down list boxes.

To illustrate what I am talking about, check out the screenshots below. In figure 1, all of the parameter datasets are hidden (which is the default behavior), but in figure 2, I have shown you the strangely hidden datasets.

Figure 1: All still Hidden                              Figure 2: Hidden Cube Parameter Datasets

Now in figure 3, I am showing you how you can see them. Just RIGHT CLICK on the data source and then select "Show Hidden Datasets". Alternatively, you could RIGHT CLICK on some open whitespace below your datasets in the Report Data pane and then select the "Show Hidden Datasets" as shown in figure 4 below.

Figure 3: Show Hidden Datasets                 Figure 4: Another way to Show Hidden Datasets

To hide them again, just de-select the "Show Hidden Datasets" option as I showed you above. I hope that you have enjoyed this first of hopefully many “Strange but True” posts.

Until next time, “keep your ear to the grindstone” – Good Will Hunting

Brian K. McDonald, MCDBA, MCSD
Business Intelligence Consultant – Pragmatic Works Consulting

Email: bmcdonald@pragmaticworks.com | Blog: BI Developer Network

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