WebReports uses data sources, such as LiveReports, to extract the required data from the database. You can control the report presentation by using a template, called a reportview, which usually contains standard HTML, and, if desired, JavaScript. When run, the WebReport inserts the source data into the reportview and outputs the result to the browser or another destination. The result is an extremely powerful and flexible reporting technology that can be safely used by Content Server business users.

LiveReports allow direct access to the Content Server database, so that access to creating LiveReports is nearly always restricted to administrators. A WebReport does not allow direct database access. Instead, it uses existing LiveReports, search queries, or other data sources. Therefore, WebReports may be safely used by business users and developers who are not administrators.

The following diagram illustrates the relationships between WebReports, LiveReports and the Content Server database. WebReports reflects and complements the WebForms and WebForm Templates paradigm. Users familiar with the concept of a custom view for a WebForm will be at ease with WebReports, which uses the same approach.