SQL Server Stuff and comma delimited column

Question: I have two tables and would like to return a recordset which is made up of table1 plus an extra column which is made up of a comma-delimited string from table2 based on an INNER JOIN. I’ve read the comma delimited article , but this returns the full recordset as a CSV.SQL Server – Create a comma delimited sql result set (SQL Server ... Answer: One option to use is the SQL Server STUFF function.The SQL Server STUFF function is used to insert one string into another string. This makes it useful for what you’re attempting to achieve. You... Read more →

Database Tuning Advisor Performance

Question: Some developers are requesting access to Database Tuning Advisor (DTA) on a Production Server. I’m not a big fan of DTA , but I can see how developers will find it useful. The main reason why I resist using DTA is it forces DBAs into lazy thinking. I strongly believe best practises for set up , capacity planning and monitoring are the cornerstone of a solid SQL Server environment. I’d like to present some reasons to the developers to resist using DTA on Production. Can you give some real-world reasons? SQL Server Install Checklist Answer: I agree with your... Read more →

How Busy is my SQL Server

When managing large SQL Server Inventories , it’s important for me to measure the level of batch requests on a SQL Server. Knowing this figure I can track changes over time. It will give you a measurable method to track impact of changes . It will also give you statistical feedback , which is used to make decisions about these servers. Some typical DBA decisions could be: 1) Should I keep this SQL Server on a physical or VM ? Read more on Virtualization – and database servers and Database Virtual Server Candidacy Criteria 2) Should I distribute some of... Read more →

Using SQL Server Express in Production

Question: I’ve had a request to install SQL Server Express to support a Production application. It’s a lightweight application , and doesn’t require some of the added features , such as High Availability , encryption, compliance reporting for audit. Also , the system only requires 4 cores and 1 GB memory. What is your view on using SQL Server Express on a Production environment? Answer: Firstly , SQL Server Express is free to download , use and distribute. That is a tempting proposition for a cost – conscious organisation. But you need to look deeper and at free. It may... Read more →

Microsoft Enterprise Advantage Licensing on MPSA

There is an increased focus on DBAs understanding and managing SQL Server licensing . Licensing options are evolving . In organisations with multiple RDBMS platforms – the aim is to maximise a stable platform while maintaining costs – understanding and applying the licensing offers of different vendors can have serious impact on RDBMS platform decisions and costs. There’s a new addition to the licensing knowledge base – Enterprise Advantage on MPSA (Microsoft products and Services Agreement). MPSA is a licensing solution combining Cloud , software assurance and software. Firstly – do not confuse this licensing with existing Enterprise Agreements. In... Read more →