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In this level, we will first take a look at how to recognize columnstore indexes in some of the generic catalog views. After that we will investigate the new catalog views that have been added just for columnstore indexes.  Read more...

Three SQL Server MVPs (Jonathan Kehayias, Ted Krueger and Gail Shaw) provide fascinating insight into the most common SQL Server problems, why they occur, and how they can be diagnosed using tools such as Performance Monitor, Dynamic Management Views and server-side tracing. The focus is on practical solutions for removing root causes of these problems, rather than "papering over the cracks".  Read more...

The Data-Tier Application Package (DacPac), together with the Data-Tier Application Framework (DacFx), provides an alternative way to automate the process of scripting out, or deploying a SQL Server database, reporting on changes, or checking version-drift. As such, it seems to provide an obvious cost-free start for tackling automated Database Delivery as part of Database Lifecycle Management (DLM). We asked Phil Factor if it is ready for Prime-time.  Read more...

In this article I will show a simple trick to display version information on the Control Flow surface, so we immediately see which version and build we are modifying.  Read more...

There are unique considerations that apply to virtual machines that run SQL Server workloads in such environments. This document provides insight into considerations and best practices for running SQL Server in Hyper-V Dynamic Memory configurations on Windows Server.  Read more...

This article takes a simple look at loading data in parallel from a single data source, be it a flat file of a database  Read more...

References and links to learn more about columnstore indexes.  Read more...

SQL Server Database Mirroring offers two methods for exchanging data: synchronously and asynchronously. Sometimes there may be a need to switch between modes for an existing mirror and in this tip we will look at how this can be done.  Read more...

This article shows how you can create a dynamic report in SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS), walking you through the steps needed to create a dynamically-grouped report.  Read more...

SQL Saturday #440 is coming to Pittsburgh on October 3, 2015. Now is the time to submit if you'd like to speak at the event.  Read more...

Without a doubt, the most versatile data flow tool in the SSIS arsenal is the script component.  This control grants...  Read more...

This year’s PASS Summit will end on Oct 30, which is just before Halloween in the US. I’m sure lots...  Read more...