More Uses for Data Explorer for Excel

Microsoft has introduced a new BI product that will help simplify the data discovery phase for Excel users. “Data Explorer” is an Excel add-in that enhances the self-service Business Intelligence experience in Excel by simplifying data discovery and access. Data Explorer is a preview product so these features may appear differently in the final release.

New Custom Metric: Percentage of blocked connections

This metric reports the number of connections that are currently blocked, divided by the total count of current connections.

Most well-balanced SQL Servers will have some degree of blocking. This metric attempts to measure the impact of lead blocking queries against other queries. Higher values indicate that many connections are being blocked, and queries should be tuned to reduce the amount of contention.

Quickly Copy Data

Moving data around can be a challenge as the sizes of our databases grow. Steve Jones talks about some of the challenges and some creative ways you might consider moving data.

Continuous integration for databases using Red Gate tools

Once databases are placed in source control, it is possible to integrate them into the existing build automation process. This will ensure that the whole development project, including the database, can be integrated regularly and tested by an automated build system. This, in turn, leads to opportunities for more frequent, reliable deployments.

Fear Fear

Do you let your fear drive you in how you work with technology? Steve Jones thinks you should be cautious, but not paralyzed.

Paging Data with TSQL

Greg Larsen shares a number of different TSQL methods to provide paging functionality, for when your application requires that you display only one page of data at a time.

Excel Function Returns Cell Address

This article details an Excel 2010 function to return the cell address of min and max functions.

The Joy of Technology

Steve Jones enjoys his career in technology and hopes that you do as well.

High IO Wait on SQL Server Replication Distribution Database

Have you ever heard this question? The database refresh has gone from 10-15 minutes to 1.5 hours. Nothing has changed on the application server and the consultant said ask the DBAs to check the database server. Where do you start to find the problem? Check out this tip to learn more.

How Do We Learn?

With a huge increase in the number of online learning frameworks, Dave Convery wonders how comfortable people are with this new way of polishing their skills.