Crosstab queries using PIVOT in SQL Server
In this tip we look at how to construct a SQL Server PIVOT query with an example and explanation.
How to Monitor IDENTITY columns to prevent unplanned downtime
If a table runs out of IDENTITY values then it, and any dependent services and applications, will be "read-only" until the problem is fixed. Steve Jones explains how to set up a custom monitor to detect and prevent such problems.
Stairway to Database Design Level 6: Procedure Bodies
Having covered the procedure headers in SQL Server in the previous level, Joe tackles the subject of the contents of stored procedures. In this level, he outlines limitations of TSQL as a procedural language, and what you need to bear in mind when deciding how to use them.
The Counter Offer - Part 2
Today we have a guest editorial from Andy Warren that takes another view of the counter offer from your employer.
Help us define the state of SQL Server monitoring in 2019
Last year we ran the industry’s first ever state of SQL Server monitoring survey, the results not only gave great insight for the community but helped us shape our product development to ensure we were meeting the needs that you were asking for. So what has changed in a year? Tell us for your chance to win a $250 Amazon voucher.
Reaping the benefits of the Window functions in T-SQL
Exploring the potential benefits of the T-SQL Window functions (OVER, LAG, and LEAD) in this piece. You can learn how to achieve up to 50% performance boost by replacing a single function call.
The Counter Offer - Part 1
Today we have a guest editorial from Andy Warren that looks at the challenge of getting a counter offer from your employer.
Enforce SSL for connecting to AWS RDS Instance of SQL Server
Learn how to force all SQL Server connections to an AWS RDS instance to use SSL encrypted connections.
Have your say on the state of SQL Server monitoring
In this blog, we review the key insights from last year’s State of SQL Server Monitoring report. One year on, how has this changed? Read the blog to find out how you can help us define the state of 2019 plus a chance to win a $250 Amazon voucher.
I'm In Charge of Books Online
Today Steve has an announcement about his role in moving Books Online forward.
Blogs
Creating a Pulsing Conducting Baton - Part 1
By Bert Wagner
Train Wreck The last time I watched a high school band nearly fall apart mid-performance...
ISACA AI Material/Exam Prep Discount (May 18 – June 30, 2026)
By Brian Kelley
If you are considering any of the ISACA AI certs like the Advanced Artificial...
A Fabric solution can be very cost effective
By ChrisJenkins
Are you currently using Microsoft Fabric or considering migrating to it? If so, there...
Forums
Why Your Index Isn't Being Used? - Reading Execution Plans to Find the Real Culprit
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Why Your Index Isn't Being...
Distance Metric Algorithms
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Distance Metric Algorithms
What Can AI Really Do?
Comments posted to this topic are about the item What Can AI Really Do?
Question of the Day
Distance Metric Algorithms
What are the distance metric algorithms that can be used in VECTOR_DISTANCE()?
See possible answers