Visitor Parking
Today we have a guest editorial from Andy Warren. There are often issues with how we get along with each other at work. Andy asks how you might handle a tough decision over a simple problem.
Microsoft's Log Parser Utility: Swell ETL
For loading text, CSV or XML files into SQL Server, the Log Parser utility, with its amazing SQL engine, is likely to be the obvious choice. Although initially developed purely for converting IIS logs, the Log Parser can turn its hand to a range of formats including even event logs or the Windows registry.
Checking Up on Developers
This Friday Steve Jones has a poll about developers. Help compile a good list of common mistakes made in SQL Server.
Prevent overlapping of time events with an indexed view
Prevent overlapping of time events with an indexed view.
Introducing the Red Gate SSMS Ecosystem
The Red Gate SSMS Ecosystem is a framework that makes it easy to develop, share and manage SSMS add-ins. We aim to help add-in developers build everything from homegrown solutions and community-driven projects to commercial solutions provided by partner companies. We hope that DBAs and database developers will benefit from better integrated tools.
Understanding Microsoft Power BI – Self Service Solutions
This article discusses Microsoft Power BI, different tools under the Microsoft Power BI umbrella and when each of them can be used.
Content in the Cloud
Steve Jones has some concerns over new options in SQL Server 2014 that might lead some customers to experiment in a way that causes them unexpected pain.
Vendor Value
Software maintenance is often required when purchasing software packages. But do the vendors deliver value for this charge? Steve Jones has a few thoughts on the subject.
SQL Server Operations from Set Theory
SQL Server provides the UNION, EXCEPT, and INTERSECT set operations. How do they work and how can they be used in SQL Server? Can you provide any examples? Check out this tip to learn more.
Trading in xp_cmdshell for SQLCLR (Part 1) - List Directory Contents
Learn how to use SQLCLR to get file system information instead of using xp_cmdshell on your SQL Servers.
Blogs
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...
Track SQL Server Configuration Changes Using the Error Log
By SQLPals
Track SQL Server Configuration Changes Using the Error Log If you...
Forums
We Are Eating Our Own Seed Corn
Comments posted to this topic are about the item We Are Eating Our Own...
Before Using AI with Business Data, Read This
Artificial intelligence tools are quickly becoming part of daily business operations, from document analysis...
Designing SQL Server ETL Pipelines That Don't Break at Scale
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Designing SQL Server ETL Pipelines...
Question of the Day
Detecting Deadlocks Quickly
In the Database Engine, when a deadlock is detected, what does the detection interval shrink to (in time)?
See possible answers