SQLSaturday #211 - Chicago 2013
Event Date: 04/13/2013 00:00:00
Event Location:
- DeVry University - Addison Campus
- 1221 North Swift Road
- Addison, Illinois
This event has completed. All data shown below is from the historical XML public data available.
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Sessions
This is a list of sessions from the event, based on the schedule in the XML files.
Title: Building an Effective Data Warehouse Architecture
Abstract: You’re a DBA, and your boss asks you to determine if a data warehouse would help the company. So many questions pop into your head: Why use a data warehouse? What’s the best methodology to use when creating a data warehouse? Should I use a normalized or dimensional approach? What’s the difference between the Kimball and Inmon methodologies? Does the new Tabular Model change things? What’s the difference between a data warehouse and a data mart? Is there any hardware that is optimized for a data warehouse? Join this session for the answers to all these questions. You’ll leave with information that will amaze your boss and lead to a big raise… – or at least lead you down the correct path to adding business value to your organization!
Speaker(s):
- James Serra
Track and Room: Track 1 - N/A
Title: Hailing Frequencies: SSAS Terms and Concepts
Abstract: In this Star Trek-themed presentation, we will explain the terms and concepts important to understand when participating in projects involving SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS).
You’ll learn the key differences between SSAS Multidimensional Model (Cubes) and SSAS Tabular Model. You’ll also learn the definitions and examples of key terms for each model, including but not limited to: measure groups, measures, dimensions, attributes, and hierarchies in the SSAS Multidimensional Model and tables, columns, and calculated measures in the SSAS Tabular Model. We will also demonstrate the basics of browsing of both Multidimensional and Tabular models using Excel 2013.
Speaker(s):
- Doug Lane
Track and Room: Track 1 - N/A
Title: Making the Leap from Profiler to Extended Events
Abstract: If you’re like me, you’ve been using SQL Trace and Profiler since you started using SQL Server. They’re like old friends, tried and true. You know how they work, you know what you can capture, you know how to find the data you need. But now you’ve been told that your good friends have been deprecated in SQL Server 2012, and you need to become best friends with Extended Events. What is THAT all about? It’s ok. Really. In this session we’ll look at Profiler and Extended Events side by side to see how easy it is to transition to Extended Events. We’ll step through real world examples using Extended Events to do what you’re used to doing with Trace, and even more. You can find the time learn Extended Events…today.
Speaker(s):
- Erin Stellato
Track and Room: Track 2 - N/A
Title: Analytic Cartography: Master geospatial reporting
Abstract: One of the hottest trends in analytics right now is geospatial reporting. Long gone are the days of viewing region based data in a grid. Now it is possible to provide users with additional insight on the regional performance of business.
In this session, Julie will show you three options for creating and delivering these analytics. First SQL Server Reporting Services 2012 will be presented to show how we can create custom shape objects to conform with business defined regions. Secondly, using the power of Excel 2013, Bing Maps and GeoFlow, learn how to build captivating visualizations directly in Excel. Finally, we’ll show how easy it is to build interactive maps using Power View.
Speaker(s):
- Julie Koesmarno
Track and Room: Track 3 - N/A
Title: Demystifying BISM and Tabular Mode SSAS
Abstract: With the release of SQL 2012, Analysis Services (SSAS) has seen some major changes. An entire new method of modelling analytic data has emerged and it’s called Tabular Mode Analysis Services. In addition to that, a new semantic layer has been added to the tool, the Business Intelligence Semantic Model (BISM), which will help to bring the two modes – Multidimensional and Tabular – into one level playing arena.
In this session, attendees will gain understanding of what Multidimensional and Tabular modelling IS, as well as how the BISM layer helps to translate user requests to ensure no confusion is made. Attendees will also learn how to BUILD a Tabular model, and will help design a solution live during the presentation.
Speaker(s):
- Josh Fennessy
Track and Room: Track 3 - N/A
Title: Tame Your Unruly Data…With Constraints!
Abstract: Never given time or care, never forming good relationships, becoming bloated, corrupt and rife with indistinguishable copies, and all so horrifyingly pervasive in society. But enough about the Kardashians, what about YOUR DATA? If you want to straighten it out and prevent it from going too far in the first place, this session is for you. We will cover constraint basics (not null, check, primary key/unique, foreign keys), provide standard use cases, and address misconceptions about constraint use and performance. We will also look at triggers and application logic and why these are NOT substitutes for (but can effectively complement) good constraint usage. Attendees will enjoy learning how to keep THEIR data off the tabloid page!
Speaker(s):
- Rob Volk
Track and Room: Track 7 - N/A
Title: Monitoring and collecting storage info for DBAs
Abstract: As an admin, we need to keep an eye on storage: What is the total size and available size on disk devices? What about mount points? How much space does each database take? What about breaking that down into schemas, tables, data size, and index size? Granted, some of that can be seen through Management Studio reports, but what if we want to keep a historical record of all that for planning and trending purposes? What if we are on a tight budget and cannot afford monitoring software.
In this session, I will explain and demo a PowerShell/SQL Server combo solution that is simple, elegant, and works! You will come away with code and instructions on how to implement it.
Speaker(s):
- Haidong Ji
Track and Room: Track 6 - N/A
Title: Anatomy of a Join
Abstract: A lot of database professionals today do not have a Computer-Science Degree so they never attended a “Introduction to Databases” course. In this session we are trying to fix at least one thing and we’ll look in depth at the three types of join operations, visualize how their algorithms work in order to understand how query plans are computed, explain why these join operations have very different performance characteristics and why the optimizer chooses a specific join operator to use in a query plan. Will demonstrate that empirical cost calculations are similar to what Query Optimizer actually outputs. Good understanding of join algorithms is vital in order to diagnose and remedy issues related to bad query plans.
Speaker(s):
- Luke Jian
Track and Room: Track 7 - N/A
Title: Demystifying Database Statistics
Abstract: Database statistics are not made up numbers, like the statistics you may hear on TV or read in a news article. They are critical metadata used by SQL Server’s query optimizer. In this session, we will look at statistics from the ground up and remove the mystery that surrounds them. Demos and real-world examples will be used to explain what statistics are, why you should care about them, and what you can control.
By the end of the session, you will understand: • How to view statistics and interpret the histogram • How and when to update statistics • How statistics affect the query optimizer • When you can let SQL Server manage statistics, and when you need to step in
Speaker(s):
- Erin Stellato
Track and Room: Track 4 - N/A
Title: Dashboard Do’s and Don’ts
Abstract: SharePoint makes it easy for users to create their own dashboards but there’s more to dashboards than just fast and easy set-up. This session will explore not only the characteristics of an effective BI dashboard using SharePoint 2013, but also the design flaws to avoid. Attend this session and learn how to perform a dashboard makeover. Starting with a review of a dashboard that uses technology correctly but not as effectively as it could, you’ll explore common problems found in dashboards, learn the characteristics of good dashboard design and discover how to implement a dashboard that communicates information clearly and concisely.
Speaker(s):
- Stacia Varga
Track and Room: Track 8 - N/A
Title: Discovering the Plan Cache
Abstract: Execution plans are stored after execution in the plan cache. This metadata about how queries are executed can provide insight into how your SQL Server environment is functioning. By using XQuery to browse and search the plan cache you can find potential performance issues and opportunities to tune your queries. This information can be used to help reduce issues related to parallelism, shift queries from using scans to using seek operations, or discover exactly which queries are using what indexes. All of this and more is readily available through the plan cache. In this session we will explore the plan cache and start you on the road to discovery.
Speaker(s):
- Jason Strate
Track and Room: Track 2 - N/A
Title: Deep dive on SQL Server 2012 Availability Groups
Abstract: Availability Groups, a feature of SQL Server 2012 delivers mission critical high availability and disaster recovery in the same solution. This session covers capabilities, deployment architecutes, how to install, configure, manage and troubleshoot this new feature with best practices of customers who have deployed and are using Availability Groups.
Speaker(s):
- Ross LoForte
Track and Room: Track 5 - N/A
Title: PowerShell 101
Abstract: If you haven’t dug in to PowerShell at this point, you’re missing out on some amazing, powerful, practical stuff that could save you time every day. PowerShell does have a learning curve at the outset, especially for those not already familiar with OO concepts or programming in a language like C#, so this introductory session will go through the very basics of PowerShell syntax. If that collection of pipes and hyphens and curly braces seems to be written in some incomprehensible foreign language, this session is for you. At the end of the session you should have a grasp of how and why a PowerShell script does what it does, and the confidence to dig in deeper and begin using POSH scripts in your own work.
Speaker(s):
- Merrill Aldrich
Track and Room: Track 7 - N/A
Title: Locks, Blocks, and Deadlocks
Abstract: These terms seem to be thrown around all the time – but what do they all mean? In this session we’ll explore the different isolation levels in SQL Server and how they affect the way that blocking and locking behave within the database engine. We’ll dive into the most common locks and how they can be leveraged and avoided to improve your application experience. Once locks are explored, we’ll discuss the dreaded deadlock and discuss techniques to detect and mitigate this troublemaker in your environment.
Speaker(s):
- Kyle Neier
Track and Room: Track 4 - N/A
Title: SQL Server Internals Architecture
Abstract: Want to take your skills to the next level? Then it’s critical to know SQL Server’s internal processes and architecture. This session will answer questions like:- What are the various areas of memory inside of SQL Server?- How are queries handled behind the scenes?- What does SQL Server do with procedural code, like functions, procedures, and triggers?- What happens during checkpoints? Lazywrites?- How are IOs handled with regards to transaction logs and database?This fast paced session will take you through many aspects of the internal operations of SQL Server. So strap on your silly, as we cover all these topics and more at speed with tongue planted firmly in cheek!
Speaker(s):
- Kevin Kline
Track and Room: Track 2 - N/A
Title: What’s New for BI in Excel 2013?
Abstract: Excel 2013 is an exciting release for Microsoft BI, and in this session we’ll take a look at all the new BI-related features in it: the PowerPivot engine integrated directly into Excel; Power View integrated as a new type of worksheet; web-based reporting with Excel Services in Sharepoint 2013; new features for users connecting to SSAS (Tabular and Multidimensional); and many other new features and functions. It’s so exciting you’ll want to upgrade right away!
Speaker(s):
- Chris Webb
Track and Room: Track 1 - N/A
Title: Rules of Engagement: NoSQL is SQL Server’s Ally
Abstract: When should you favor a NoSQL store over SQL Server, or consider polyglot persistence? In military and police operations, the rules of engagement determine when, where, and how force shall be used. As the “data police”, we are responsible for determining when, where, and how data is stored. As SQL Server professionals, it tends to be our first choice, even when there are other data storage options that are a ‘more natural’ fit. In this session, Rick and Dave will start with the NoSQL basics, and then dive into the different categories of NoSQL stores while explaining what each type is well suited for. (Pair Presented with Dave Valentine @IngeniousSQL)
Speaker(s):
- Rick Krueger
Track and Room: Track 6 - N/A
Title: Visualization Choices: What, When, and How?
Abstract: When do you use a sparkline, column, or line chart? How do you create a business scorecard – and with what tool? Using Excel, Power View, and Report Builder, this session will guide you through the choices and help you apply the right visual to your business data. Come see what well-known industry experts have to say about the correct use of visualization choices and techniques, colors, backgrounds, borders, and 3-D effects. Then see demonstrations of how to create those rich visuals in the different reporting tools, used with PowerPivot and tabular semantic models.
Speaker(s):
- Paul Turley
Track and Room: Track 8 - N/A
Title: Tools to Make Multi-Object Administration Easier
Abstract: Are you a DBA? Do you have more than one instance? An instance with more than one database? A database with more than one object? If you answered yes to any of these questions, join me to learn to administer multiple instances, databases and objects from a single query or script. Topics covered will include Central Management Server, loops with dynamic SQL and sqlcmd.
Speaker(s):
- Frank Gill
Track and Room: Track 6 - N/A
Title: Upgrading to SQL Server 2012 with limited downtime
Abstract: With SQL Server 2012 released and going strong, we’re all wanting the latest and greatest, high performing, SQL Engine sitting on our servers. How we do that is another question. How do you get a weekend of downtime? Do you like convincing the business you need it? I don’t and that is why we’re going to look at methods to upgrade or migrate SQL Server 2005, SQL Server 2008 and SQL Server 2008 R2 up to SQL Server 2012 with as little downtime as possible - minutes. In this session, we’ll see how mirroring, log shipping and even replication, can make us look like DBA Rock stars at upgrade time.
Speaker(s):
- Ted Krueger
Track and Room: Track 1 - N/A
Title: Writing Professional Database Code
Abstract: As protectors of arguably, the most important asset companies’ have we are tasked with ensuring quality, security and performance. However the ways in which we utilize and obtain those assets are often not formalized and therefore suffer from degraded quality. Let’s discuss some strategies that can be implemented to not only raise the bar of quality, but also make you sleep easier at night.
Speaker(s):
- Aaron Lowe
Track and Room: Track 7 - N/A
Title: Using Compression to Improve Database Performance
Abstract: Back in the old days, compression and databases was a really bad idea. Now, with powerful CPUs we can use to both improve performance and save disk space. We will cover the basics of how all compression and deduplication works, and then we will learn how SQL Server page and row compression work, and the special compression that is used in SQL 2012 Columnstore Indexes. We will demo performance and space savings in using compression.
Speaker(s):
- Joseph D’Antoni
Track and Room: Track 6 - N/A
Title: Advanced Charting Techniques in SSRS
Abstract: SSRS 2008 R2 has been a game changer for SQL Server in terms of visualization techniques. With a wide range of available options for charting, BI professionals struggle to get familiar with even the basic functionalities of most charts. This session will talk about the basic functionalities of all the charts as well as some tips and tricks around them. Come to this session and take your charting skills to the next level.
Speaker(s):
- Jason Thomas
Track and Room: Track 1 - N/A
Title: Consulting The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
Abstract: Ted Krueger will join Hope in presenting this session. Consulting is a mystical career path that is often questioned: should I do it, can I do it and why should I do it? Come join us on a discussion of the pros and cons to consulting with an emphasis on SQL Server and Microsoft Technologies. We’ll field questions with real world experiences. Once you leave this open floor session, you’ll be able to make better choices in your own professional development and how consulting may or may not effect it.
Speaker(s):
- Hope Foley
Track and Room: Track 8 - N/A
Title: What Are You Waiting For?
Abstract: You’ve spent the afternoon sweating over your T-SQL query. You’ve wrung out all of the wrinkles. It’s deployed, it’s running… now its waiting. In SQL Server the most performant query can become a problem query if there aren’t any resources in the SQL Server for it to use. In this session, we’ll look at wait statistics and what they are. We’ll look into how they are accumulated and how they can be monitored. By the end of the session, you’ll be equipped with the tools needed to determine if there are resource issues in your environment and methods to start mitigating them.
Speaker(s):
- Jason Strate
Track and Room: Track 2 - N/A
Title: Data Quality Services Approach to Cleansing
Abstract: Learn about Microsoft’s Data Quality Services (DQS), what it is and how it works. You will discover how DQS sets itself apart from conventional data cleansing routines and go through examples on how to begin your own Data Quality Project. What really makes DQS unique and powerful is its ability to access shared knowledge, so we will show you how to access and use this shared knowledge to your benefit.
Speaker(s):
- Joseph Verftido
Track and Room: Track 3 - N/A
Title: The Future of the DBA
Abstract: What will the DBA role look like in 10 years? 20 years? Will a DBA still be necessary? We’ll explore a number of scenarios in an open forum as we try to determine how, as DBA’s, we can position ourselve for a bright and productive future. I’ll talk about the trends I’m seeing from companies of all shapes and sizes. This presentation isn’t about consensus but about tackling the tough issues facing the future of our profession.
Speaker(s):
- Scott Shaw
Track and Room: Track 4 - N/A
Title: Getting the most out of Power View
Abstract: Power View is a visual data exploration tool that comes built into Excel 2013. With it you can build charts that seamlessly interact with each other and quickly map your data using Bing maps. In this session, you will learn how to get the most out of Power View: what it does well and what it doesn’t so you can maximize the value you get out of it in a minimum amount of time.
Speaker(s):
- Leonard Murphy
Track and Room: Track 3 - N/A
Title: How to install and configure SSRS 2012/Sharepoint
Abstract: Come to this session and learn how easy it is to install an SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) Environment with a SharePoint Foundation environment. Terry will share his lessons learned on how to install and configure an SSRS/Sharepoint environment. Terry will also share the lessons learned about what the books don’t tell you and how to set up your SharePoint sites and security to lessen future grief. Terry will even cover some more detailed topics like how to configure Visual Studio to be able to deploy from within Visual Studio right to Sharepoint and how to call an SSRS report from Java.
Speaker(s):
- Terry Bunio
Track and Room: Track 8 - N/A
Title: What exactly is Business Intelligence?
Abstract: BI is the “Gathering of data from multiple sources to present it in a way that allows executives to make better business decisions”. I will describe in more detail exactly what BI is, what encompasses the Microsoft BI stack, why it is so popular, and why a BI career pays so much. I will review specific examples from previous projects of mine that show the benefits of BI and its huge return-on-investment. I’ll go into detail on the components of a BI solution, and I will discuss key concepts for successfully implementing BI in your organization.
Speaker(s):
- James Serra
Track and Room: Track 4 - N/A
Title: Database Unit Testing made Easy
Abstract: Though most developers agree that unit testing plays an important role in software development, to ensure quality meet milestones, most developers write unit tests only as an afterthought. VSTS helps to mainstream Test Driven Development methodology (TDD) into world of database development. In this session, we will not only cover the basis of unit testing concepts and terminology, but also discuss how unit testing helps ensure and document the quality and accuracy of database deliverables. We will run through a demo of creating and running database unit tests using VSTS 2012, as well as upgrading from VSTS2010 database and unit test projects.
Speaker(s):
- Sanil Mhatre
Track and Room: Track 7 - N/A
Title: Demystifying Clustering for the DBA
Abstract: The word cluster is used a lot in the IT world, especially when it comes to SQL Server. We have clustered instances of SQL Server, availability groups that require Windows failover clustering … but how does a DBA make sense of it all? Wonder no more! This session will explain all the forms of clustering as they relate to SQL Server (including how Windows fits into the picture) and give you some of the top keys to success whether you are using an older version of Windows and SQL Server, or you’re looking to deploy the latest and greatest.
Speaker(s):
- Allan Hirt
Track and Room: Track 5 - N/A
Title: Database Health and Performance
Abstract: Sure, your SQL Server is up and running. Is it healthy? Is it performing the best that it can? Where are your performance bottlenecks? In an emergency, can you objectively demonstrate where a performance problem lies? This dynamic dialog session by David Klee (@kleegeek) will present a solid process for checking your environment’s overall health and performance levels as well as solutions for common problems. Some of the items focused on include dynamic management views (DMVs), Windows Perfmon, and disk performance tools such as IOMeter and SQLIO.
Speaker(s):
- David Klee
Track and Room: Track 5 - N/A
Title: SQL Server 2012 T-SQL
Abstract: Have you heard about all the great new T-SQL features? Attend this session to learn about new functions, OVER clause enhancements, the Sequence Object and more!
Speaker(s):
- Kathi Kellenberger
Track and Room: Track 2 - N/A
Title: Partitioning for Perf and Mgmt of Large Tables
Abstract: Managing data in ever-growing transaction and history tables can be challenging. Activities with large chunks of data such as moving data to archive tables, batch-importing many rows, or defragging an entire table when only the active portion changes introduces heavy I/O and blocking. Table partitioning seamlessly solves a host of headaches with minimal effort. Ever wanted to truncate or defrag part of a table, or insert an entire staging table of data into another table in milliseconds instead of hours? Come see what partitioning can provide for you.
Speaker(s):
- Eddie Wuerch
Track and Room: Track 5 - N/A
Title: An Optimistic Approach: Snapshot Isolation in SQL
Abstract: Until 2005, SQL Server was a very pessimistic RDBMS. However with the introduction of the Read Committed Snapshot database option and the new Snapshot Isolation level, that is no longer the case.
After a high level look at all SQL Server isolation levels, we’ll spend the majority of this session discussing the implementation of optimistic concurrency control in SQL Server. We’ll look at the benefits and drawbacks of using an optimistic isolation level and discuss use cases where it may or may not be appropriate.
Come learn how to put one of the more powerful, but least understood, aspects of SQL Server to work for you!
Speaker(s):
- Paul Timmerman
Track and Room: Track 5 - N/A
Title: SQL Server 2012 Memory Management
Abstract: SQL Server 2012 brings a wide range of changes from its previous versions - one key change is the way SQL Server memory is managed. With releases prior to SQL Server 2012, there were 2 memory managers, these have been merged into 1 with the latest version, and that’s just the start of the changes for SQL Server memory. This session will dive into questions related to memory primarily for SQL Server 2012.
Speaker(s):
- Neil Hambly
Track and Room: Track 4 - N/A
Title: Service Broker: The Queue Continuum
Abstract: Pop quiz: How can SQL Server help developers build scalable, distributed, and asynchronous applications? Service Broker is the answer! In this presentation, I’ll show you what it is; talk about when and why you might want to use it in your applications; walk through an example of how to set it up; and share a few lessons learned from our successful implementations.
Speaker(s):
- Ed Leighton-Dick
Track and Room: Track 6 - N/A
Title: What is a BI DBA?
Abstract: Have you ever read a job description (or needed to hire one yourself) asking specifically for a “BI DBA” and wondered what exactly that means? In this session we will discuss the expectations of the role, what the various pieces of the Microsoft BI stack are and what administrative components and gotchas are involved for each one. If you need to unveil the mysteries and intricacies of administrating an SSIS, SSAS and/or SSRS environment from a DBA perspective then check this session out!
Speaker(s):
- Jorge Segarra
Track and Room: Track 3 - N/A
Title: Flipping Through the SSIS Catalag
Abstract: With the release of SQL Server 2012 one of the biggest changes for SSIS Administration was the addition of the Integration Services Catalog and using parameters. The Catalog is the storage and logging location for SSIS 2012. Parameters are the new configurations in SSIS 2012 and once you start using them you will never go back. Package Variables, Configuration Strings, Package properties can all be configured using Parameters. You will learn how to create the catalog, use parameters to deploy packages through different environments and use the built in reporting to monitor packages as they run.
Speaker(s):
- MIKE DONNELLY
Track and Room: Track 8 - N/A
Speakers
This is a list of speakers from the XML Guidebook records. The details and URLs were valid at the time of the event.
Jason Thomas
Twitter: - @SqlJason
LinkedIn: Jason Thomas
Contact: http://www.SqlJason.com
Jason Thomas is a Microsoft Certified SQL Server professional with over 10 years of Microsoft BI experience. He is a BI Consultant for BlueGranite, based in Charlotte, NC. When he#39;s not at work, Jason likes sharing his time between the MSDN forums (for which he was recognized with the Microsoft Community Contributor award), blogging about MSBI (www.SqlJason.com), speaking at SQL Server events, and watching movies with his wife (not necessarily in that order).
Erin Stellato
Twitter: - erinstellato
LinkedIn: Erin Stellato
Contact: http://www.sqlskills.com/blogs/erin
Erin Stellato is a Data Platform MVP and lives outside Cleveland, OH. She has almost 20 years of technology experience and has worked with SQL Server since 2003. Her areas of interest include performance tuning, Query Store, Extended Events, and helping accidental/involuntary DBAs understand how SQL Server works. Erin is an active member of the SQL Server community, has volunteered for PASS at the local and national level, and is a regular speaker at conferences including the PASS Summit, SQLIntersection, and SQLBits. Outside of time with family and friends, she enjoys running, spinning, movies, and all things chocolate.
Rick Krueger
Twitter: - https://twitter.com/dataogre
LinkedIn: Rick Krueger
Contact: http://www.dataogre.com
Rick Krueger has been working with SQL Server as either a Developer or a Development DBA for over 20 years. He is a veteran Independent Consultant, Lead Development DBA and BI Developer based in the Twin Cities. Rick is giving back to the SQL Community by being an active member and presenting at PASSMN, blogging at DataOgre.com, and presenting at SQLSaturdays in the MidWest.
David Klee
Twitter: - kleegeek
LinkedIn: David Klee
Contact: http://davidklee.net
David Klee is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and VMware vExpert with a lifelong passion for technology. David spends his days focusing on the convergence of data and infrastructure as the Founder of Heraflux Technologies. His areas of expertise include cloud, virtualization, performance, and business continuity. David speaks at a number of national and regional technology related events, including PASS Summit, VMware VMworld, SQLBits, SQLSaturday events, and many SQL Server User Groups.
Erin Stellato
Twitter: - erinstellato
LinkedIn: Erin Stellato
Contact: http://www.sqlskills.com/blogs/erin
Erin Stellato is a Data Platform MVP and lives outside Cleveland, OH. She has almost 20 years of technology experience and has worked with SQL Server since 2003. Her areas of interest include performance tuning, Query Store, Extended Events, and helping accidental/involuntary DBAs understand how SQL Server works. Erin is an active member of the SQL Server community, has volunteered for PASS at the local and national level, and is a regular speaker at conferences including the PASS Summit, SQLIntersection, and SQLBits. Outside of time with family and friends, she enjoys running, spinning, movies, and all things chocolate.
Allan Hirt
Twitter: - SQLHA
LinkedIn: Allan Hirt
Contact: http://www.sqlha.com/blog
SQLHA, LLC founder, consultant, trainer, author, and business continuity, infrastructure, and virtualization expert Allan Hirt has been working with SQL Server since 1992 when it was still a Sybase product. He has also been clustering in Windows Server since the late 1990s when it was known as Wolfpack. Currently a dual Microsoft MVP (Data Platform; Cloud and Datacenter Management) as well as a VMware vExpert, Allan works with all sizes of customers, no matter if they are on premises or in the public cloud. He also delivers training and speaks at events over the world.
Sanil Mhatre
Twitter: - sqlsuperguru
LinkedIn: Sanil Mhatre
Contact: http://sqlwithsanil.com
Sanil Mhatre is a Senior Data Engineer, currently focused on delivering Analytical insights for a large Technology solutions Services company in Missouri. He has a Master’s degree in Information systems and enjoys working with various Data processing technologies, analytics tools and visualization platforms. Sanil has an interest in Data Science, is an active member of PASS and a frequent speaker at technical conferences and user groups. He volunteers with STEM mentorship programs, blogs and loves to keep up with developments in the fields of Machine Learning AI. When Sanil isn’t working he enjoys spending time with family and friends, tasting craft beer and hiking with his dogs.
Haidong Ji
Twitter: - @haidong
LinkedIn: Haidong Ji
Contact: http://www.haidongji.com
Haidong Ji is an experienced SQL Server and MySQL consultant, author of several SQL Server books, and an active speaker and participant in user groups and SQLSaturday events.
Jason Strate
Twitter: - @stratesql
LinkedIn: Jason Strate
Contact: http://www.jasonstrate.com/
Jason Strate is a SQL Server Solutions Architect with Pragmatic Works. He is also a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and MCM. He has over 15 years of experience developing, architecting, and managing data platforms. Jason writes, blogs, and presents on SQL Server.
Paul Timmerman
Contact: http://blogs.lessthandot.com/index.php/author/mndba/
Paul is a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and the Lead SQL Server DBA at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Paul has fifteen years of experience in database administration and currently the Chapter Leader of the Minnesota SQL Server User Group, PASSMN. Paul is an active member of the PASS community and routinely speaks at user group meetings and SQLSaturday conferences.
Chris Webb
Twitter: - @cwebb_bi
LinkedIn: Chris Webb
Contact: https://blog.crossjoin.co.uk/
Chris Webb is a member of the Power BI CAT team. He is the author of “Power Query for Power BI and Excel” and a co-author of “SQL Server Analysis Services 2012: The BISM Tabular Model”, “Expert Cube Development with SQL Server 2008 Analysis Services”, and “MDX Solutions with Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services 2005 and Hyperion Essbase”.
Hope Foley
Contact: http://hopefoley.com/
Hope has over 12 years experience in the IT world, she has worked across many industries from small business enterprises to Fortune 500 companies. She has a vast knowledge of database design, administration and support, data warehousing and data mining, and custom database solutions. Hope joined PTI in 2007 as a SQL Server Database Administrator/Analyst, and took over as Principal Microsoft Consultant, where she now leads a team of expert DBAs and developers. She is also a SQL Server MVP.
Jason Strate
Twitter: - @stratesql
LinkedIn: Jason Strate
Contact: http://www.jasonstrate.com/
Jason Strate is a SQL Server Solutions Architect with Pragmatic Works. He is also a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and MCM. He has over 15 years of experience developing, architecting, and managing data platforms. Jason writes, blogs, and presents on SQL Server.
Eddie Wuerch
Twitter: - @EddieW
LinkedIn: Eddie Wuerch
Contact: http://www.indydba.com
Eddie Wuerch has 20 years of experience as a SQL Server specialist in a much-longer IT career. A Microsoft Certified Master, Eddie spends his days in the Salesforce Marketing Cloud, focusing on performance, scale, and uptime for the massive SQL Server backend. These SQL Servers churn billions of transactions daily against trillions of rows of data in a 24x7 continuously-available online system accessed by millions worldwide every day.
Paul Turley
Twitter: - paul_turley
LinkedIn: Paul Turley
Contact: http://www.sqlserverbiblog.com
Paul is a Principal Consultant for Pragmatic Works, a Mentor and Microsoft Data Platform MVP. He consults, writes, speaks, teaches blogs about business intelligence and reporting solutions. He works with companies around the world to model data, visualize and deliver critical information to make informed business decisions; using the Microsoft data platform and business analytics tools. He is a Director of the Oregon Data Community PASS chapter user group, the author and lead author of Professional SQL Server 2016 Reporting Services and 14 other titles from Wrox Microsoft Press. He holds several certifications including MCSE for the Data Platform and BI.
Joseph Verftido
Twitter: - /melissadata
LinkedIn: Joseph Verftido
Contact: http://blog.melissadata.com/data-quality-authority/
A Data Quality Analyst at Melissa Data, Joseph has worked with numerous clients in understanding their business needs for data quality, analyzing their architecture and environment, and recommending strategic solutions to successfully integrate data quality within their infrastructure. He gives frequent webinars for implementing different techniques for data quality and also manages the MVP Program – a network that provides resources to community leaders, speakers, consultants and other experts.
Merrill Aldrich
Twitter: - @onupdatecascade
LinkedIn: Merrill Aldrich
Contact: http://sqlblog.com/blogs/merrill_aldrich/
Merrill is a consultant with the national Digital and Technology Consultancy RBA. In past lives he was a SQL Server DBA for Financial Services and Real Estate Management organizations, a designer of buildings, an expert in three dimensional computer graphics and building information modeling, a speaker, teacher, and visiting lecturer.
Ed Leighton-Dick
Twitter: - eleightondick
LinkedIn: Ed Leighton-Dick
Contact: http://www.edleightondick.com
Ed Leighton-Dick is a Microsoft MVP, SQL Server performance and architecture specialist, and Founder/Principal Consultant of Kingfisher Technologies. He is a frequent volunteer with PASS, including current roles as a Regional Mentor, co-leader of I-380 PASS local group, and co-leader of the HA/DR virtual group. He can often be found teaching sessions at local, regional, and national events, including user groups, SQLSaturday, and PASS Summit.
Rob Volk
Twitter: - sql_r
LinkedIn: Rob Volk
Contact: http://weblogs.sqlteam.com/robv/
Rob Volk is a SQL Server DBA in the Metro Atlanta area since 2001. He also moderates and answers the forums on SQLTeam.com. While an old-time cranky DBA, he no longer considers quot;business intelligencequot; an oxymoron or quot;the cloudquot; as merely atmospheric moisture, and is delightedly dipping his toes into both of these new oceans, and loves to do things in new and and unusual ways.
Frank Gill
Twitter: - skreebydba
LinkedIn: Frank Gill
Contact: http://skreebydba.com/
Frank Gill is a Senior Data Engineer at Concurrency With 21 years of IT experience, the first 8 as a mainframe programmer, he has developed a love of all things internal. Over the past several years, he has worked extensively with SQL Server solution in Azure, including Managed Instance. When not administering databases or geeking out on internals, Frank volunteers at the Art Institute of Chicago and reads voraciously.
MIKE DONNELLY
Twitter: - SQLMD
LinkedIn: MIKE DONNELLY
Contact: http://sqlmd.wordpress.com
Michael Donnelly has been working with SQL Server for 15+ years and holds the MCSE: Data Platform certification. He is an avid runner, blogger, and a wannabe gourmet chef. Currently living the SQL Life on the Jersey Shore.
Kathi Kellenberger
Twitter: - auntkathi
LinkedIn: Kathi Kellenberger
Contact: http://auntkathisql.com
Kathi Kellenberger is the editor of Simple Talk at Redgate and a Data Platform MVP. She has worked with SQL Server for over 20 years and has authored, co-authored, or tech edited over a dozen technical books. Kathi is the co-leader of the PASS Women in Technology Virtual Group and a volunteer at LaunchCode. When Kathi isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cycling, singing, and climbing the stairs of tall buildings. Be sure to check out her courses on Pluralsight.
Joseph D’Antoni
Twitter: - jdanton
LinkedIn: Joseph D’Antoni
Contact: http://joeydantoni.com
Joseph D’Antoni is a Senior Consultant and Microsoft Data Platform MVP with over 20 years of experience working in both Fortune 500 and smaller firms. He is a Principal Consultant for Denny Cherry Associates and lives in Malvern, PA. He is a frequent speaker at major tech events like Microsoft Ignite, PASS Summit, and Enterprise Data World. He blogs about all topics technology at joeydantoni.com. He believes that no single platform is the answer to all technology problems. Joseph holds a BS in Computer Information Systems from Louisiana Tech University and an MBA from North Carolina State University, and is the co-author of the Microsoft book “Introducing SQL Server 2016”.
Julie Koesmarno
Twitter: - @mssqlgirl
LinkedIn: Julie Koesmarno
Contact: http://www.mssqlgirl.com
Julie Koesmarno, MCSE Data Platform, and MCSE Business Intelligence, MCT, is a Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, with a Bachelor’s degree in IT. She has over 10 years of experience working with SQL Server for large-scale and multi-million-dollar OLTP and ETL projects as a SQL Server developer and system analyst/designer. Her past projects include delivering a SQL Server 2012 data warehouse and BI solutions in the US and Australia. She now works with hybrid, cloud and on-prem SQL projects.
Luke Jian
Twitter: - @sensware
LinkedIn: Luke Jian
Contact: http://blog.sqlpositive.com
Luke Jian is an experienced database architect with a leading healthcare information company. A frequent speaker at conferences and local user groups he has 15+ years of experience in database design, development and optimization on SQL Server and Big Data projects.
Josh Fennessy
Twitter: - @joshuafennessy
LinkedIn: Josh Fennessy
Contact: http://www.joshuafennessy.com
Josh Fennessy, Solution Architect at BlueGranite, has been building solutions with the SQL Server BI stack for 8 years. He is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert in Business Intelligence. Josh#39;s passions include manipulating data in novel ways to open analytic possibilities not before possible.
Josh is active in the SQL Server and Open Source communities. Beyond relational and OLAP data projects, Josh is also involved in projects using cluster computing platforms such as Hadoop.
Aaron Lowe
Contact: http://www.aaronlowe.net
Aaron has over 14 years of SQL Server experience. He is strong in database design development, also having extensive experience in SSIS, SSRS, and administration, including performance, migrations and replication. Aaron is a MCITP in 2005 and 2008 as well as having a Masters in Information Systems Management. He is currently co-president of the Chicago SQLPASS Chapter and founder of SQLFriends.org. When he’s not working, he’s spending time with his bride, 5 children and 2 dogs.
Ted Krueger
Contact: http://blogs.lessthandot.com/index.php/All/?disp=authdirauthor=68
Ted Krueger has been working in development and database administration for over a decade. Ted currently works for a respected consulting company, Magenic Technologies as a valued Database Professional resource. He is a PASS Region Mentor, Friends of Red Gate member, SQL Server MVP and community mentor. Ted blogs and is also one of the founders of LessThanDot Technical Community
Scott Shaw
Contact: http://www.dbaexperience.com
Scott Shaw is the co-author of two books on T-SQL through Apress publishing. He is a frequent speaker at SQL community events and is the co-leader for the PASS Virtual Chapter on Virtualization. He frequently teaches Big Data and Microsoft BI related courses for Saint Louis University Workforce and Organizational Development Center. He currently lives in Saint Louis working for Oakwood Systems Group as a Principal Consultant and Data Management Lead.
Ross LoForte
Ross LoForte is a Technology Architect at the Microsoft Technology Center in Chicago focused on SQL Server solutions. With more than 16 years of business development, project management, and SQL architecture solutions experience, he has been working with the Microsoft Technology Centers the past 10 years and has led architecture design and proof-of-concept engagements for Microsoft’s largest and most strategic customers to design enterprise, mission-critical SQL Server solutions.
Neil Hambly
Twitter: - Neil_Hambly
LinkedIn: Neil Hambly
Contact: http://dataidol.com/NeilHambly
Neil Hambly is a SQL Server consultant, founder and consultant at Datamovements, a Gold Microsoft Data Analytics Consulting company. Neil has 20+ years in a variety of SQL Server roles and is an MCT. He is a regular presenter (200+ events) at user groups, and PASS events, including PASS Summit and SQLSaturday, and many UK events (SQLBits, SQLRelay). Neil is the leader of PASS London (UK), a Professional Development VC, a Melissa Data MVP, and a SQL Cruise Technical Lead, who loves Guinness, whisky, and dancing.
Leonard Murphy
Twitter: - @phonetictalk
LinkedIn: Leonard Murphy
Contact: http://leonardmurphy.com/blog
Leonard Murphy is a BI Business Analyst at Trek Bicycle Corporation in Waterloo, WI. Leonard works closely with business areas globally to help them maximize the value of Trek’s Business Intelligence infrastructure. Leonard is experienced with cubes, data warehouses, Power Pivot and Power View and focuses on promoting self-service BI throughout Trek as well as in the wider community. Leonard is also on the organizing team for SQLSaturday Wisconsin.
Kevin Kline
Twitter: - kekline
LinkedIn: Kevin Kline
Contact: http://blogs.sentryone.com/author/kevinkline
Kevin Kline is a database and industry expert serving as Principal Program Manager at SentryOne, the industry leading SQL Server database tools vendor. A Microsoft SQL Server MVP since 2003, he is a founder and former president of PASS. Kevin is an author of many books, blogger, columnist, and popular international speaker. Kevin’s best known book is the best-selling SQL in a Nutshell and contributes monthly to Database Trends Applications magazine. He tweets at @kekline and blogs at http://Blogs.SQLSentry.com/Author/KevinKline.
Kyle Neier
Twitter: - @Kyle_Neier
LinkedIn: Kyle Neier
Contact: http://sqldbamusings.blogspot.com/
Kyle has been working professionally with computers since 1995, the past 10 years being dedicated to SQL Server. He currently works as an Engineer for Apparatus (apparatus.net) where he continues to chase his passion to automate DBA processes. He is a proud father of 5, a leader of the local PASS chapter (www.indypass.org), a Microsoft Certified Master (MCM), and enjoys sharing his passion for SQL Server with others by speaking and mentoring at local and regional events.
Jorge Segarra
Twitter: - @sqlchicken
LinkedIn: Jorge Segarra
Contact: http://sqlchicken.com
Jorge Segarra is a senior consultant for Microsoft (Premier Support for Developers) and a former SQL Server MVP. Jorge has co-authored titles including “SQL 2008 Pro Policy-Based Management” and “SQL Server 2012 Bible” .
James Serra
Twitter: - www.twitter.com/JamesSerra
LinkedIn: James Serra
Contact: http://www.JamesSerra.com
James Serra is a big data and data warehousing solution architect at Microsoft. He is a thought leader in the use and application of Big Data and advanced analytics. Previously, James was an independent consultant working as a Data Warehouse/Business Intelligence architect and developer. He is a prior SQL Server MVP with over 35 years of IT experience. James is a popular blogger (JamesSerra.com) and speaker. He is the author of the book “Reporting with Microsoft SQL Server 2012”.
James Serra
Twitter: - www.twitter.com/JamesSerra
LinkedIn: James Serra
Contact: http://www.JamesSerra.com
James Serra is a big data and data warehousing solution architect at Microsoft. He is a thought leader in the use and application of Big Data and advanced analytics. Previously, James was an independent consultant working as a Data Warehouse/Business Intelligence architect and developer. He is a prior SQL Server MVP with over 35 years of IT experience. James is a popular blogger (JamesSerra.com) and speaker. He is the author of the book “Reporting with Microsoft SQL Server 2012”.
Doug Lane
Contact: http://www.douglane.net
Doug Lane (MCITP, MCTS) is a consultant with Brent Ozar Unlimited and has over 14 years’ experience with SQL Server. He blogs about SQL Server with emphasis on Reporting Services and professional development.
Terry Bunio
Twitter: - @tbunio
Contact: http://www.agilevoyageur.com
Terry started his career working with Adabas as a DBA., Over the next 20 years, Terry has worked with Oracle, Informix, Sybase, and Microsoft SQL Server as both a Data Modeler and DBA. Terry is a huge proponent of normalization and dimensional modeling.
Terry has implemented Operational Data Stores, Data Warehouses, and ETL solutions for Investors Group, LPL Financial, Manitoba Blue Cross, and others.
Terry has recently worked on integrating Agile practices into Database projects.
Stacia Varga
Twitter: - @StaciaV
LinkedIn: Stacia Varga
Contact: http://blog.datainspirations.com
Stacia Varga is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and SSAS Maestro with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences. A consultant, educator, author, and principal of Data Inspirations, her career spans more than 30 years, with a focus on improving business practices through technology.
Since 2000, Stacia has provided consulting and education services for Microsoft’s Business Intelligence technologies. As Stacia Misner, she also authored several books covering the Microsoft BI stack.
Sponsors
The following is a list of sponsors that helped fund the event: