Taking Shortcuts
We don't mean to introduce security issues, but sometimes we do because we give in to pressure.
Execution Plans and Data Protection
One of the most important tools for query tuning is ability to view execution plans. They are even portable; you can send an execution plan to get advice from someone who doesn't have access to the underlying data. Have you even considered that sensitive information might travel along with the plans? Hugo Kornelis explains how execution plans affect data protection.
The CDO
Does your company have a Chief Data Officer? Steve Jones doesn't think you need one to use data wisely.
SQL Server Closure Tables
SQL Server has a couple of different ways to represent hierarchies, but they do not allow storing any additional information that is important to the relationship between objects. In this article, Phil Factor explains how to use closure tables to overcome this deficiency.
SQL Server From .Net: Building a DataSet with Code
A basic introduction for developers about working with the DataSet object in ADO.Net to represent objects in a SQL Server database, and some of the options available.
Hash Join Memory Grant Factors
Remember when that old DBA told you not to SELECT *? Erik Darling explains why.
Missing Index Impact and Join Type
Erik Darling shows how missing index requests have different impact numbers depending on the query's join type.
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