One of the things that the SQL Server development team has tried to do is get more access for the people using the product. That usually means that a substantial number of the development team shows up at large events like TechEd, they blog, etc. To me one of the biggest things is the sqlwish email (sqlwish@microsoft.com) for feedback. I know this stuff gets read and I've often gotten replies from people on the team that have commented on my suggestion.

There's also a fun side to the team as well. I was in Eaun Garden's presentation on Database Mail in SQL Server 2005 and afterwards was asking him a few questions. Before Andy dragged me out, he mentioned that the SQL team was working on some "podcasts", mostly in video form, for the week at TechEd.

If you're interested in seeing more about the team, especially in a more casual setting, check out the video diary of the SQL Server team. It's interesting and worth checking out.

And if you're at TechEd, be sure that you stop by the cabana area and say hi to these great developers.