sql

Trailing or Leading Commas?

For me, it’s leading. If I have a code or syntax problem, I find it easier to see the line missing the comma if I can look at the first char position. Of course you may say that’s crazy, and any reasonable programmer would demand trailing commas. I’m guessing your IDE offers formatting options that [...]

Is it Possible to Learn without Doing?

No. For several years now I have been an Oracle database dude who eavesdropped on the SQL community. I hoped to pick up the lingo and become savvy enough that I could say “Yes, I do SQL Server.” If I’m being honest, then I must admit I have largely failed. Yes, I understand what people [...]

Oracle vs SQL Server, Take II

Missed PT I?: Read Part I my favorite aspects of each RDBMS platform Update: Read PT III where I talk about monitoring indexes I had the pleasure of hanging out with @oraclenerd and @SQLChicken earlier this year in Tampa, FL. It was remarkable for a couple of reasons, but what I remember most is playing [...]

Replaying Activity in SQL Server

Load testing is an interesting topic. Application load testing is what most people are familiar with. They either use something like LoadRunner, or they ask half the company to ‘jump on the website and start clicking buttons.’ But what about the database? In this case, what about SQL Server? Will it be able to sustain [...]

Date Night

For most couples, ‘date night’ is something to look forward to, but unfortunately does not come around often enough. For others, even the word ‘date’ sends a chill down their spine. It’s not an adverse reaction to their partner, but rather a unpleasant reminder to the daily toil that is working with DATE formatted data [...]