Server Instances

SQL Server 2008 Sparse Columns Identifying Columns For Conversion

SQL Server 2008 has introduced a new way to store data for columns that contain excessive NULL values called Sparse Columns. What this means is that when you declare a column as Sparse and any time a NULL value is entered in the column it will not use any space. Is there a way to identify what columns would make a good candidate for this without having to analyze each column individually?

Understanding the MERGE DML Statement in SQL Server 2008

This article about MERGE DML Statement in SQL SERVER 2008 and how to implements it and several examples

SQL Server 2008 Upgrade Technical Reference Guide

This 490-page document covers the essential phases and steps to upgrade existing instances of SQL Server 2000 and 2005 to SQL Server 2008 by using best practices. These include preparation tasks, upgrade tasks, and post-upgrade tasks. It is intended to be a supplement to SQL Server 2008 Books Online.

High Availability

What's new in SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services?

New features in SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services mean improved charting and increased memory. Learn more about SSRS performance upgrades in SQL 2008.

How to Use the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Upgrade Advisor Tool

This article shows how to use the SQL Server 2008 Upgrade Advisor Tool to improve the SQL Server 2008 upgrade experience

Life on SQL Server 2008: Interview with Thomas Grohse

Thomas has been running SQL Server 2008 live in production for over 1 year as part of the Microsoft Early Adopter Program. Below is the full interview I conducted with him about his experience with SQL Server 2008.

Investigating the new Spatial Types in SQL Server 2008 - Part 1

This article introduces us to the new Spatial Data Types in SQL Server 2008

Grouping Sets in SQL Server 2008

This article shows how to use the GROUPING SETS feature in SQL Server 2008