RDL stands for Report Definition Language. It is an XML representation of a SQL Server Reporting Services report definition. The data retrieval and layout information for a report is contained in a report definition. RDL is MADE up of XML elements that follow a Reporting Services-specific XML language. By accessing code assemblies within report definition FILES, you can add your own custom functions for manipulating report item values, styles, and formatting.

RDL encourages commercial reporting product interoperability by creating a common schema that allows report definitions to be exchanged. RDL can be used with any XML-based protocol or programmatic interface. In other words, RDL is :

• An XML schema for report definitions.
• A business-to-business and third-party interchange format.
• An extensible and open architecture that provides support to ADDITIONAL namespaces and custom elements.

Following are the VARIOUS components of an RDL file:-

• Data: This section holds the dataset that may be used to write QUERIES and is always linked to the data source.
• Design: You can create a report in the shape of tables, matrices, or other formats. All you have to do now is drag and drop the data you wish to use.
• Preview: After the run command has been executed, it is used to examine the report preview.