Definitely written for backup ISVs, but this is an interesting architectural article as to how the backup systems will work in SQL Server 2005.

Outer Join Trouble

by Steve Jones

SQLServerCentral.com

SQL Puzzles

Writing outer joins can be more difficult than it appears at first glance. Steve Jones examines this less often used query technique and brings to light a few places where you can lose data.

THE ROLE OF DATA DICTIONARY

by Additional Articles

TDAN

Design and Theory

IT leaders from enterprises around the world have realized that acquiring and implementing commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) application packages is a smarter thing to do, than the traditional approach of developing home-grown applications. This may not be the fit-for-all solution, but it makes sense from a cost, time to market and resource standpoint. Selection and acquisition of the software package is just the first step. How the software package brings value through successful implementation, is critical to the business. Internal groups as well as industry analysts will closely watch COTS package implementation in the organization.

Clustered Indexes in SQL Server: Things You Need to Know

by Additional Articles

SQL Server Performance

Indexing

This article covers a few, more advanced topics about the usage of clustered indexes in SQL Server. Not only will I try to convince you of the absolute necessity of using clustered indexes, I'll also give you some tips on how to use them in a not so obvious context.

Securing SQL Server

by Press Release

SQLServerCentral.com

the January magazine is being printed right now and should be mailed out early next week. Read the editorial and see how you can get you e-copy now!

Digging Into Access Performance

by Andy Warren

SQLServerCentral.com

Access

Access can be a very quick and easy to use tool for working with SQL Server data and for quick and dirty projects, it might be the best tool. But there can be performance issues at times and Andy Warren digs into some of these based on some analysis of what Access does behind the scenes.

Creating an End-to-End Package

by Brian Knight

White Knight Technology

Integration Services (SSIS)

In this sample chapter, you'll get a full tutorial on how to create an end-to-end SSIS package including transformation, looping and archiving of files.

Cursors and embedded SQL

by Additional Articles

Redgate

Advanced Querying

In the days when I contentedly cut procedural code, I was puzzled by the visceral rages of the database specialists; they were like the ship’s cook occasionally going berserk with a meat-cleaver. After I switched to database work, I realized why.”