About two decades ago, I introduced the concept of transition constraints to show Data Validation in a database is a lot more complex than seeing if a string parameter really is an integer. In October of 2008, I did an article called Constraint Yourself! on how to use DDL constraints to assure data integrity. One of the topics in that piece was a look at state transition constraints via an auxiliary table.
2025-07-07
In the US, this is the Independence Day weekend. I had a few spare vacation days, so I tacked one on, making this a four day weekend. My plans are simple. Prep for my family coming over on the 5th for a celebration of the 4th (Ha!). Work on my query tuning book (gotta make […]
2025-07-05
84 reads
Hello, Grant again as Steve is on sabbatical. My evenings and weekends are currently being used to update my SQL Server query performance book for 2025. I really enjoy it because writing the book forces me to structure my learning on SQL Server 2025, not just hit it in some slipshod manner. Plus, I've got […]
2025-07-04
96 reads
Hey all! It's me, Grant. For those who don't me, Grant Fritchey. I work with Steve Jones, the person normally talking to you here. Yes, Redgate actually employs me, and continues to. I don't know why either. Anyway, Steve is off for a few weeks on his sabbatical. More power to him and I hope […]
2025-07-02
116 reads
Misusing MAXDOP can silently kill performance across your SQL Server. In this deep dive, we uncover how one bad query caused CPU meltdown, run real-world tests, and show how tuning—not parallelism—often holds the true fix.
2025-06-23
4,911 reads
There is something magical about SQLBits. Whether it is the technical sessions, the sense of community and fun, or the relentless commitment to learning about the latest innovation, this event continues to serve as a pulse check for where data is today and where it’s going tomorrow. This year’s SQLBits at the ExCel in London […]
2025-06-21
60 reads
All Spark Connect Posts
I have just finished an update for the spark connect dotnet lib that contains the DeltaTable implementation so that we can now use .NET to maintain...
2025-06-20
27 reads
Learn about a few different options for migrating from Microsoft SQL Server to PostgreSQL.
2025-06-20
2,295 reads
What are some of the most common mistakes when working with Power BI? For example, when a junior colleague starts on a Power BI project for the first time, what are the pitfalls you try to warn them about? What advice would you give them?
2025-05-26
Learn a few tips and tricks to make your work with SSMS much more efficient and helpful.
2025-05-19
5,636 reads
By Arun Sirpal
Every DBA has a box like this. Sitting untouched for months. Nobody’s proud of...
In all recent versions of the database you can call DBMS_UTILITY.EXPAND_SQL_TEXT to get the...
By Steve Jones
I type fairly well. Well, I type fast, but I do wear out a...
Comments posted to this topic are about the item From SQL Server On-Premises to...
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Independence Day 2026
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Independence Day 2026
In the original Independence Day movie (1996), what type of computer did Jeff Goldblum use to connect to the alien mainframe? Take a guess, don't look it up or ask AI.
See possible answers