I like your question " Have I even got close to exploiting the full potential of SQL Server 2000?" This could also be asked of SQL 2005. With SQL Server or any other software, you will never see its full potential as long as new version get pumped out every 2-3 years. It's all about business and making money not about making SQL Server better...until the next version.

I really enjoy working with SQL Server as most of you, I only wish that instead of making new versions, why not just continues and add to existing foundation? Add features, functions, processes. All these could be additional dollars and you would only pay for the upgrades needed.

Just my cents worth.

Rudy