2009 Baltimore SQL Server Users Group Meeting Schedule

 Date

Speaker

Title and Abstract

Sponsor

January 12, 2009

Jeremy Kadlec of Edgewood Solutions

Title - SQL Server Dynamic Management Views and Functions

Abstract - All of the rules have changed when it comes to accessing SQL Server 2005 system information.  System tables are out and the new Dynamic Management Views and Functions are here to stay.  Come learn how to incorporate the SQL Server system and database information properly via T-SQL under this new paradigm.  Whether it is the traditional server, database, object or security related information you are looking for or accessing to new performance counters this session will deliver the information you need.

February 2, 2009

Title - Windows PowerShell and SQL Server 2008

Abstract - Windows PowerShell is a relatively new tool from Microsoft that can be used to automate administrative functions.  It has the capabilities that you are accustomed to using in batch files and Windows Scripting Host.  In addition PowerShell is built on top of the .NET Framework which allows you to pipe the output from one command (called a cmdlet) to the next, much like a Unix shell but in a much cleaner way. 

The focus of this presentation is the SQL Server 2008 built-in support for PowerShell.  We’ll walk through:

• Basic usage of PowerShell
• Navigating the SQL Server Management object model
• Using PowerShell to perform SQL Server administrative functions using the Invoke-Sqlcmd cmdlet
• Executing a PowerShell script in a SQL Agent job step

The Invoke-Sqlcmd cmdlet essentially allows you to execute SQLCMD within your PowerShell scripts.

March 16, 2009

Donald Farmer of Microsoft

Title - Your First Project with SQL Server Data Mining

Abstract - Many users are intrigued and excited to see data mining available in the Microsoft SQL Server product, but many don't know how to start using these features. In this webcast, we lead you through the first steps to success for your data mining projects. We look at the overall architecture of data mining and the kinds of problems that can be solved. We also look at important points for your first project, such as choosing the right algorithms and testing your mining models. The aim is for you to be productive immediately – as soon as you get home from the meeting!

Title - Architecting a Business Intelligence Solution

Abstract - Successful architectures share the characteristics of focusing their designs to support the system’s major underlying requirements.  But in a Business Intelligence (BI) solution, what are those requirements and how can we architect a SQL Server-based solution to fulfill them?  Those answers surprisingly involve the combination of people, process, as well as technology beyond just SQL Server.  Whether your organization is just starting to implement its first BI solution or is already leveraging BI technologies across the organization, this discussion provides some field-tested, best practice approaches you can leverage to answer these questions, design or improve your architecture, and gain the most from your BI investments.

May 11, 2009

Jack Richins of Microsoft

Title - SQL Server 2008 Security

Abstract - SQL Server 2008 introduced three new security features – Transparent Data Encryption, Enterprise Key Management, and SQL Audit. With increased concerns about privacy and data thefts, security remains a “must have” business feature even with constrained budgets. Come learn how to use these features to better secure your database applications and met business compliance regulations.

Learn how to:
* Protect your data at rest
* Use 3rd party key management systems to encrypt data in SQL Server with keys stored outside of SQL Server
* Keep an audit record of access to sensitive data without tanking your performance

Quest

Title - SQL Server Reporting Services Report Builder 2.0

Abstract - Authoring reports for SQL Server Reporting Services is even easier than before using the new stand-alone application Report Builder 2.0.  Let's walk through creating some basic reports with RB2 as an introduction to the new application, how it fits in with other report authoring applications, as well as some of the other new report authoring features in SQL Server Reporting Services 2008.

MSSQLTips

Title - A Lap Around Visual Studio Team System

Abstract - As companies begin to address their development processes (or lack thereof) and pain associated with said processes, Application Lifecycle Management becomes a key factor in their ability to; plan better features, to design and build better software, test new code and make faster decisions. Visual Studio Team System is the toolset that is designed to provide organizations with what they need to accomplish all the above. This presentation will explore Team Foundation Server and the products comprising the rest of the Team System suite namely; VSTS Database Edition, VSTS Developer Edition, VSTS Architecture Edition, VSTS Testing Edition, and Visual Studio Team Suite. If we have enough time we will take a peek at the upcoming release in 2010.

Title - Building Your Net Worth as a DBA

Abstract - In an unsure economy, we need to focus extra hard on proving and improving our worth to our employers.  But where should we focus our efforts?  What's important to your boss?  What can you do to truly distinguish yourself?  In this presentation, I will share the traits I've developed over the years that have enabled me to stand out.  I'll cover the pitfalls and pearls of communication, the value of analyzing and understanding your audience, and identify opportunities to showcase your organizational skills by providing highly effective project management services.  Attend this presentation and learn how to increase your value as a DBA, and help you rise to the top!

Title - SQL Server Database Mirroring Concepts

Abstract - In this session we will take a look at Database Mirroring which was introduced with SQL Server 2005.  We will take a look at:

• Database mirroring concepts
• How to setup mirroring using the GUI and T-SQL
• How to setup alerts and manage mirroring
• Steps that need to be handled manually
• Handling maintenance for mirrored databases

iLand Internet

Solutions 

Title - SQL Server in The Cloud

Abstract - The term "cloud" seems to be bearing it's head in public media, technical blogs, and even Monday Night Football lately.  What can the cloud do for database administrators?

Hopefully, by the end of this session, one will learn:

• What is the cloud, really?
• What are the technical benefits of the cloud?
• What benefits of the cloud can help SQL administrators
• What is the difference between a pay per use cloud provider and an enterprise cloud provider?

From here, a technical brief will be presented showing:

• SQL database topology in the cloud
• Scaling virtual resources for database workloads
• Achieving replication, high availability, and site resilience
• Addressing DR and backup needs
• Provide an in-depth overview of iland's cloud infrastructure and capabilities 

Title - Resolving SQL Server Database Corruption

Abstract - Random database corruption ensued following a replacement of the disk subsystem in our DR site.
i. Approaches used - failed and successful
ii. Tools used
iii. Solution
iv. Lessons learned

Ray Barley

Title - Using Excel 2010 PowerPivot in BI Applications

Abstract - Demonstration of the new pivot table/chart features in Excel 2010