Technology Articles

  • Accessing SQL Server Metadata
    This article looks at some of the methods that are available to access SQL Server metadata. From System Table queries to SQL Server 2005's SMO (SQL Management Objects). First printed in SQL Server Standard magazine.

  • Automate MS Cluster Failovers
    If you are are working in an Active-Passive clustered SQL Server environment there are often times when you need to initiate a failover so that you can perform routine maintenace tasks on the Passive server - to apply service packs, install software, etc. In this article we outline a quick and easy way to perform scheduled failovers using the MS Cluster Service Automation Classes.

  • Filter Cube Data through Custom Dimension Security
    A fairly common request in regards to cubes is the filtering of cube data by and for specific users. One very effective way to restrict data and accomplish the task can be done through custom dimension security.

  • Stress Testing Your SQL Server Databases - A Systematic Approach
    Stress Testing your SQL Server environments is a practice that can yield great benefits. Stress Testing can be used for performance tuning, to uncover bottlenecks, and for capacity planning among other things. This article outlines which variables are needed and what questions need to be answered to ensure a successful and productive stress test environment.