2020-02-22
103 reads
editorial
Towards an efficient interface between application and database
As JSON documents becomes increasingly widely used, as the interface between application and database, Phil Factor reckons it's about time JSON Schema was built-in to SQL Server, alongside XML Schema.
2020-01-25
304 reads
On Looking and Acting the Part
Phil Factor's offers tips for longevity in the world of IT consultancy: listen well, humiliate no-one and convince others that it was their expertise that solved the problem.
2024-12-27 (first published: 2020-01-18)
426 reads
The harsh reality of charitable IT work
At work in IT, we can wander around looking important with no apparent useful skills whatsoever. When working outside the bubble of the industry, things are different.
2019-12-14
264 reads
Human frailty and the custodianship of data
Until you open the box your data is, like Schrödinger's cat, both safe and breached.
2019-11-16
142 reads
Protecting Data from the Inside
Phil Factor on the difficult task of guarding against the theft of data from within an organization.
2019-10-19
204 reads
Soft Skills: Controlling your career
Technical skills come and go while soft skills will serve you throughout your life. They will have the greatest influence over your career, job and role. For some people soft skills come naturally. As an Aspergers person (Aspie) I have to practice my soft skills at every opportunity. Pure techies need not lose hope. Soft […]
2021-04-23 (first published: 2019-09-19)
6,610 reads
The Sequel to SQL
Phil Factor tacks a few new buzzwords onto his CV and looks forward to joining the new wave of "digital innovators".
2019-08-10
691 reads
Over-thinking Database Build Scripts
With SQL Server we tend to build databases, when necessary, from one or more build scripts. If making changes to existing versions of the database, we then script the required changes. Usually, a synchronization tool will create a script that can be tweaked to work; although occasionally it will require something more complicated, as when […]
2019-06-29
337 reads
Databases made for Ops, not 'Oops!'
Just as you write a unit test before writing the code, so you must devise the means to monitor a database, to ensure its smooth operation, before creating the database.
2019-06-01
204 reads
Blogs
Back at Small Data SF in 2025
By Steve Jones
Today I’m in San Francisco at Small Data SF 2025. I went to the...
Check Power BI Bookmarks with Semantic Link Labs
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SQL Server Database Migration Pitfalls
SQL Server Database Migration Pitfalls (and How to Fix Them) Database migrations are where great...
Forums
Large posts full of code not allowed anymore?
Several times now, I've seen a post asking for a solution. I've replied, and...
Data > Hype
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Data > Hype
Create and Read the Analysis Services Flight Recorder
Comments posted to this topic are about the item Create and Read the Analysis...
Question of the Day
Slipstream parameters
What parameters are needed to enable a slipstream installation for setup.exe (SQL Server setup)?
See possible answers