T-SQL Integer Data-Type Conversions
This article will show some common integer data-type conversions using T-SQL.
Pioneering with PowerShell
In PowerShell, Phil Factor believes we have a true novelty: a Windows Scripting language that outsmarts Perl and Python and Ruby and one that will continue to cause radical changes to Windows server applications, and the tools we use to administer them.
The Next Generation
There's no shortage of technology workers, especially good ones. Today Steve Jones reminds us that we might wish to encourage others to try technology and then help prepare them for a career in this field if they enjoy it.
The Perils of Running Database Repair
In a perfect world everyone has the right backups to be able to recover within the downtime and data-loss service level agreements when accidental data loss or corruption occurs. Unfortunately we don’t live in a perfect world and so many people find that they don’t have the backups they need to recover when faced with corruption.
The Road to Professional Database Development: Database Normalization
Not only is the process of normalization valuable for increasing data quality and simplifying the process of modifying data, but it actually makes the database perform much faster. To prove the point, Peter Larsson takes a large unnormalised database and subjects it to successive stages of normalisation.
Get Performance Tips Directly From SQL Server
This article describes a utility that allows you to inspect cached plans and extract information that can be useful in improving the performance of your SQL.
Stump the Wizard
Today we have an editorial from Aug 3, 2007. It is being republished as Steve is on vacation. Today Steve asks the question about which fun games you might like outside of work.
Steps to Apply a Service Pack or Patch to Mirrored SQL Server Databases
Planning on patching my SQL Servers to the latest service pack, but not sure how to complete this for a environment that is using database mirroring? In this tip, will outline the environment and then walk through the process of patching mirrored servers.
Adding Map Callout Boxes in Reporting Services
A callout text box outside the map area would help to enhance the visual effect of presenting data in reporting services.
The Cloud
This editorial was originally published on Sept 11, 2007. It is being re-run as Steve is on holiday. This is an interesting look at the cloud from 2007.
Blogs
Learn about Modern Microsoft Apps in San Diego
By Steve Jones
I wrote about learning today for the editorial: I Can’t Make You Learn. I...
How To Deploy Fabric SQL and Azure SQL Databases with Azure DevOps
By ReviewMyDB
Fabric has CI/CD built in, but if you've tried to use it for database...
A New Word: Attriage
By Steve Jones
attriage – n. the state of having lost all control over how you feel...
Forums
SSRS Reminded Me of the Time Microsoft Retired TMG
Comments posted to this topic are about the item SSRS Reminded Me of the...
Getting results from a Procedure to join to a query
I have a need to execute a stored procedure and return the results to...
Upgrade 2016 Standard to 2022 Express
Title pretty much says it all - can this be done? I've tried several...
Question of the Day
BIT_COUNT II
In SQL Server 2025, I have a table (dbo.UserPermission) that contains this data:
UserID UserPermissions 15 23 37 4 NULLWhat is returned when I run this code:
select bit_count(UserPermissions) as PermissionCount from dbo.UserPermission where UserID = 4;See possible answers