Moving Data From Excel to SQL Server - 10 Steps to Follow

SQL Server Integration Services provide a versatile way of reading Excel files into SQL Server. A task like this illustrates the advantages of the graphical approach of SSIS. Andy Brown explains.

Migrating Databases Checklist Part1

SQL Server databases move around as an organisation’s data grows, applications are enhanced or new versions of the database software are released. If not anything else, servers become old and unreliable and databases eventually need to find a new home. Here's what to do when migrating your databases.

SQL Server 2012 Integration Services - Using PowerShell to Configure Project Environments

Continuing our discussion on how to leverage the capabilities of PowerShell to automate the most basic SSIS management tasks, this article will explore more complex topics by demonstrating the use of PowerShell in implementing and utilizing project environments.

The Importance of Reading Comments

Read when you search for help on the internet. You might miss a very important part of what you must do.

Extend SQL Server DDL Triggers for more functionality: Part 2

A previous tip, SQL Server DDL Triggers to Track All Database Changes, generated a lot of discussion involving ways to make the provided DDL trigger more useful. Check out this tip to expand your knowledge on DDL Triggers.

Help us improve SQL Source Control

We've been working really hard on SQL Source Control, and need your input. We're currently working on suggestions from our user forum and on an updated migrations feature that supports all source control systems and works across branches. We'd love it if you could spare 10 minutes to complete this survey. If you complete the survey by Friday June 14, you could win a $100 Amazon voucher. There are two up for grabs!

Incremental Data Loading Using CDC

Describes a design pattern for using CDC to power fast and efficient incremental data loads.

More Uses for Data Explorer for Excel

Microsoft has introduced a new BI product that will help simplify the data discovery phase for Excel users. “Data Explorer” is an Excel add-in that enhances the self-service Business Intelligence experience in Excel by simplifying data discovery and access. Data Explorer is a preview product so these features may appear differently in the final release.

New Custom Metric: Percentage of blocked connections

This metric reports the number of connections that are currently blocked, divided by the total count of current connections.

Most well-balanced SQL Servers will have some degree of blocking. This metric attempts to measure the impact of lead blocking queries against other queries. Higher values indicate that many connections are being blocked, and queries should be tuned to reduce the amount of contention.

Continuous integration for databases using Red Gate tools

Once databases are placed in source control, it is possible to integrate them into the existing build automation process. This will ensure that the whole development project, including the database, can be integrated regularly and tested by an automated build system. This, in turn, leads to opportunities for more frequent, reliable deployments.