Event Location:
Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC)
2800 Campus Ridge Road
Charlotte, North Carolina
Abstract:
Combining Master Data Services with Data Warehouses, will cause some challenges in ETL Scenarios. In this session we will go through a demo of Inferred Dimension Members implementation with SSIS considering the fact that MDS keeps the single version of truth for the dimension record. In this session you will learn how we will write back new record's data into MDS entity as an Inferred member. The staging structure of Master Data Services and Batch Processing will be used for this. Then you will learn what is the best practice to add the inferred record into Data Warehouse dimension. Updating the existing dimension member also would consider the Inferred member and apply SCD types only if this is not an inferred Member.
Speaker(s): Reza Rad,
Abstract:
You may not see this in the marketing materials, but the reality is PowerPivot and AS Tabular together provide some powerful options for Data Warehousing professionals. This session is for DW dimensional modeling pros interested in streamlining optimizing the design delivery process for enterprise-quality data marts dimensional semantic models. We'll touch on Agile Lean disciplines, how they can be applied to DW solution delivery. Then we’ll walk through demos of practical applications in the form of PowerPivot POCs prototypes that can be promoted to AS Tabular models and refitted to the finished DW structures once delivered. We’ll focus on key DW challenges and how these technologies and techniques can be used to speed and improve effectiveness of requirements gathering and user testing, optimize sequencing of deliverables, minimize risk of rework and ultimately deliver quality DW solutions successfully.
Speaker(s): Brent Greenwood,
Abstract:
This 500 level session will focus on using undocumented statements and trace flags to get insight into how the query optimizer works and show you which operations it performs during query optimization. I will use these undocumented features to explain what the query optimizer does from the moment a query is submitted to SQL Server until an execution plan is generated including operations like parsing, binding, simplification, trivial plan, and full optimization. Concepts like transformation rules, the memo structure, how the query optimizer generates possible alternative execution plans, and how the best alternative is chosen based on those costs will be explained as well.
Speaker(s): Benjamin Nevarez,
Abstract:
Change Data Capture (CDC) is one of the newest features available since SQL Server 2008 which allows you to easily track and keep history of all DML (Data Manipulation Language) changes on user tables such as INSERT, DELETE, and UPDATE without additional overhead. One of the most important benefits of this feature is that it allows you to see the data before after an UPDATE statement which allows you to recover data overwritten or deleted quickly without the need of a database restore. On this presentation we will go over the steps necessary to configure CDC and do an overview of some real world scenarios where this feature can be applied such as in ETL for Business Intelligence, Disaster Recovery, Auditing, and more.
Speaker(s): Jose Chinchilla,
Abstract:
DAX is the query and programming language for future Microsoft BI solutions, yet many users found DAX hard to learn because they couldn't grasp what the "context" was. This session will turn you into a DAX expert by mastering this core concept of DAX. You will learn what row contexts and filter contexts are and how to access them. You will learn functions which create row and filter contexts. You will learn the initial contexts of a calculated column expression, a row level security expression, and a measure expression. You will learn how initial contexts are created from an MDX query. You will learn how to manipulate filter contexts using the overwrite and intersect semantics. You will see a lot of examples and learn a few DAX tricks along the way.
Speaker(s): Jeffrey Wang,
Abstract:
It is expected that business reports be insightful and engaging. Region based reporting can be transformed from boring grids to visually interactive maps. This session will describe how to embark upon self-service and mobile BI solutions that are available within the Microsoft BI stack for analytical geospatial reporting. You will learn the basics of geographical data, including GIS, Longitude-Latitude coordinates and free form text. Using these different data types, we will discuss SSRS 2012, Power View and Excel 2013 tools that can leverage insightful analysis. Finally and most importantly, attending this talk will get you started in learning the essential techniques to deliver geospatial reports that tell meaningful stories for users.
Speaker(s): Julie Koesmarno,
Abstract:
Is there a great difference in the brain chemistry of someone fleeing a hungry mountain lion and someone presenting to a group of colleagues in a corporate board room? The answer is: NO. Over the past decade, a lot has been learned about the chemistry of the brain and why humans react the way we do to events in our environment. The concept of EQ (Emotional Intelligence) is a compelling and growing concept that applies this knowledge in a set of learnable, improvable skills for leading human beings. While EQ is often applied to corporate leadership, the parallels to presenting are fantastic. This session will explain the basics of EQ and demonstrate how you can apply it to make your presentations better in the following areas: * Crafting better slide decks * Preparing yourself for presenting * Delivering your content * Dealing with the unexpected Understanding and practicing the concepts of EQ can make your presentations a better experience for everyone in the room--including you.
Speaker(s): Mark Vaillancourt,
Abstract:
The Hadoop ecosystem is a valuable tool for Business Intelligence and Data Visualisation practitioners. It allows you to mashup unstructured data from Hadoop with structured data from more traditional relational and multi-dimensional sources. For Business Intelligence practitioners, this is an excellent tool to gain new business insights, and overcome data silos that come from within the organisation, whilst freeing you to make use of external data sources too. Join us at this session in order to see how your Big Data can empower your business users via familiar Business Intelligence tools such as Excel and Power View.
Speaker(s): Jen Stirrup,
Abstract:
Want to quickly roll out ultra-flexible reports that will wow your end users? Want to learn how to display the data in multiple layouts on the same report? Want to consolidate similar reports while still providing flexibility to your end users? This can all be achieved by leveraging the three controls based on the Tablix template: Table, Matrix, and the List control. In this demo-heavy session, you'll learn how to create a columnar report that grows vertically as well as horizontally. You'll see the magic of having multiple layouts for the same data on the same report. You'll see how to do more useful things with fewer reports, and you’ll come away with a bag full of new tricks to make your reports flexible and scalable works of art.
Speaker(s): Mickey Stuewe,
Abstract:
Many three-letter acronyms (TLAs) adorn our database world. This session focuses on two recent additions – MDS (Master Data Services) and DQS (Data Quality Services) – explaining what the new features are and exploring how to leverage them to improve your data quality. High data quality is fundamental to any business analytics system. In this session, we’ll begin with an overview of data quality and the latest Microsoft tools available, and then demonstrate MDS and DQS and how to use them together for continuously improving data quality. We’ll also look at how to integrate them into your existing data-quality strategies. Data quality is everyone’s responsibility – but we can still lead the way forward. Join this session to see how.
Speaker(s): Neil Hambly,
Abstract:
Do you dread handing your T-SQL over for code review? Do your queries run slower than you expect? Does the DBA always want to tweak your T-SQL? In this demo heavy session, we’ll take a look at various ways to improve your T-SQL. You’ll learn about formatting T-SQL for readability and why top down design is not the best solution for writing T-SQL. You’ll learn why implicit conversions slow queries down and how to leverage simple techniques for minimizing the performance impact of explicit conversions. You’ll also learn how to use set theory to improve performance. By changing some of your T-SQL writing habits you can improve performance of queries from the very beginning.
Speaker(s): Mickey Stuewe,
Abstract:
SSIS is a great tool for transferring data from one data source to another, and for implementing complex ETL processes. However, there are some painful shortcomings that make it difficult to automate package creation, easily reuse patterns and templates, and create packages directly from schema information and other metadata. The free and open source BIDS Helper Add-In offers support for automatically generating SSIS packages using the Business Intelligence Markup Language (Biml). In this session we will start by showing the power of Biml. We will then step back, and start from the beginning of using BimlScript. Once we cover the basics, we will cover practical examples using the BIDS Helper add-in to automate SSIS development.
Speaker(s): Paul Waters,
Abstract:
This session explores the seven CUBE functions that are natively available in Excel 2013. Unknown to many business analysts, these useful functions can be used to retrieve data model members and values to create parameter-driven report designs. The session topics will introduce each of the seven functions. Demonstrations will range from the simple, to the more sophisticated involving dynamic expressions, MDX expressions, integration of data from multiple data models, and macro-driven layouts. This session is a must for those looking to drive more from Excel when reporting from the BI Semantic Model. Much of the content presented in this session is also applicable to Excel 2007 and Excel 2010.
Speaker(s): Peter Myers,
Abstract:
Even though PowerPivot is touted as a power-user tool, you will not get far without encountering a many-to-many relationship. Analysis Services handles these automatically for dimensional models, but PowerPivot/Tabular models to do not. We will cover the topic from beginning to end and you will learn some easy concepts and rules that will allow you to recognize and repair many-to-many problems that you encounter in your models. You will learn how filter propogation works, how to cross filter, how to force filter propogation and how to optionally cause filters to propogate - giving you the results you need when your model contains many-to-many relationships. This session will provide you with some of the skills you will absolutely need to b
Speaker(s): Wayne Snyder,
Abstract:
PDW is the newest appliance offering from Microsoft. The sales person makes it sound great. Come hear how PDW is the real deal. Thinking about implementing one? We will uncover the landmines and show you how to navigate them. PDW truly is a great product for a Data Warehouse!!!!!
Speaker(s): Andy Isley,
Abstract:
Yes, you read the title right. No, it's not about the usual "one table per partition" and "restore full backup then copy the data over" methods. No, there are no 3rd party tools involved. Just you and your SQL Server. Yes, it's crazy. No, it's not for production purposes. And yes, that's why it's so much fun. Prepare to dive into the world of data pages, log records, deletes, truncates and backups and how it all works together to get your table back from the endless void. Want to know more? Come and see!
Speaker(s): Mladen Prajdić,
Abstract:
The session explains Attributes and Hierarchies in Analysis Services 2012 Semantic Model. They are used to slice (filter) and dice (group) measures and dimensions used to view analytical data. The slicing and dicing of data involves fields, columns, or whatever you want to labeled them. But, in SQL Server Semantic model these are called Attributes and Hierarchies. The configuration of these slicers and dicers are important in SQL Server Analysis Services. This session will demonstrate the difference between an attribute and columns in a hierarchy in the dimension as well as the configuration of these for best performance and viewing.
Speaker(s): Thomas LeBlanc,
Abstract:
The term "big data" dominates the headlines in technology news these days, but what is the fuss really all about? What are the implications for traditional data warehousing and reporting? What kind of technology and skill sets do you need to successfully implement to a big data strategy? Come to this session for a gentle, business-focused introduction to big data and leave with some inspiration and practical steps for tackling your first big data project.
Speaker(s): Stacia Varga,
Abstract:
Power Query is a free add-in for Excel 2010 and up that provide users an easy way to discover, combine and refine data all within the familiar Excel interface. With Power Query you can now combine and transform data from a variety of unusual data sources all within Excel, which would have previously required a complex ETL job. Join Devin and learn how you can use Power Query to take your Self-Service BI solutions to the next level.
Speaker(s): Devin Knight,
Abstract:
Dimensions are an integral part of any Data Mart/Data Warehouse initiative. In this session we will cover the different techniques to load the most common types of Slow Changing Dimensions (Type 1 2) using TSQL and various SSIS design patters using native components only.
Speaker(s): Jose L. Rivera,
Abstract:
Throughout the past year, we have effectively used PowerPivot, Data Explorer, and Power View to map, evaluate, and measure our ETL processes. In this session, you will learn how PowerPivot can be a key component in verifying data quality. You will also see how Data Explorer can help you shape data for test harnesses and test plans. Finally, you will see how Power View in Excel 2013 can be used to easily share results of ETL projects, especially during the development process.
Speaker(s): Steve Hughes,
Abstract:
Even in the most reliable ETL system, it's eventually going to happen: A package will fail, an output row count won't match what is expected, a data anomaly will force a forensic search of the package infrastructure... In this session, we'll talk about some of the things that can go wrong during package execution - and some of the defenses that can be built into SSIS to help head off those errors (or at least make the errors easier to troubleshoot). From error handlers to package restartability, and from logging methods to row count validation and remediation, we'll cover various ways to keep your ETL flowing when problems arise.
Speaker(s): Tim Mitchell,
Abstract:
Introduction to Windows Azure HDInsight - In this session we will discuss Microsoft’s Hadoop offering for the cloud. We will explain which services are available, how to launch your first Hadoop cluster and start processing BIG DATA.
Speaker(s): Rick Hallihan,
Abstract:
An often overlooked aspect of development and production support is the impact of TempDb. This presentation will describe how tempdb works, best practices and delve into some of the items which use TempDb and how it can impact your performance.
Speaker(s): Michael Femenella,
Abstract:
SQL Server Data Tools is an evolving product. Besides revamping database projects this product has also changed the lifecycle in which we receive new features. In this session we will demonstrate features such as database snapshots, localdb, and database unit testing. Most importantly we’ll show the many benefits of the Publish feature, and why you will want to use the built-in refactoring instead of just renaming objects. Throughout this presentation we will also highlight and demonstrate the features that have been added to SSDT in the past year.
Speaker(s): Aaron Nelson,
Abstract:
Integration Services 2012 offers a brand new way to store, log, and execute SSIS packages – the SSIS Catalog. How does the Catalog work? Can it be customized? Can it be extended? Yes it can! In this presentation, Andy Leonard shows you how!
Speaker(s): Andy Leonard,
Abstract:
As a SQL Server DBA I see my role having 2 main focuses. First is to protect the data and second is to ensure performance is maximized. More often than not companies forget about data security when they focus on performance tuning. In this presentation I will mention a few cases where encryption could have saved a lot of hassle. I will then demo a method that can be used to "index" commonly searched on encrypted values (ex: SSNs, Credit Card, etc) helping reduce the impact on the performance of a query.
Speaker(s): Chris Bell,
Abstract:
Microsoft have released a distribution of Hadoop targeted at making big data accessible to everyone. Hadoop is different to SQL Server. Not necessarily better, just different. It is a tool for a job. if you have only ever worked with an RDBMS such as SQL Server then Hadoop is going to play with your mind a little and you are going to need to rethink a few things. This session is going to take Hadoop and break it apart. I will also look at some of the tooling Hive and Pig. Keep an open mind and let me show you that Hadoop has lots to offer.
Speaker(s): Allan Mitchell,
Abstract:
In this session, we will explore the query creation process in Power Query. You will learn about the formulas the query editor generates in various scenarios. This knowledge can provide you with a foundation for further exploration into the formula language itself and query customization.
Speaker(s): Cathy Miller,
Abstract:
Business Intelligence is an extremely hot career. If you are a DBA or have another IT position, how can you transition to a BI role? I will describe what exactly BI is, what encompasses the Microsoft BI stack, why it is so popular, and why a BI career pays so much. Then I will delve into the steps to take to become a BI expert and how I made the transition, going from a salaried DBA to a high-in-demand and high-income BI consultant. If I can go from a complete unknown to building a personal brand that allowed me to present at the PASS Business Analytics conference in just two years, so can you!
Speaker(s): James Serra,
Abstract:
Did you know that you may already have the skills you need to process BIG DATA in Hadoop? Come learn about three applications that are included in Microsoft HDInsight cluster - Pig, Hive, and Sqoop.
Speaker(s): Gregory Suarez,
Abstract:
You’ve got your Analysis Services cube created, and deployed in production. However, you notice that every night, the cube is taking longer and longer to process, and users are starting to complain about their data not being ready when they arrive in the morning. If you’ve found yourself in this situation, or want to avoid being in it in the first place, come to this session. We’ll cover how to benchmark processing performance, track down bottlenecks, and how to tune things to get the best performance for processing your cube.
Speaker(s): John Welch,
Abstract:
This session will provide a deeper dive into the art of dimensional modeling. We will look at the different types of fact tables and dimension tables, how and when to use them. We will also some approaches to creating rich hierarchies that make reporting a snap. This session promises to be very interactive and engaging, bring your toughest Dimensional Modeling quandaries.
Speaker(s): Jason Horner,
Abstract:
In today’s rapidly changing financial world, designing robust and durable data warehouses can be a challenge that does not always stand the test of time. In this presentation, we shall look at some of the challenges and design issues that were encountered whilst designing two custom warehouses and the steps that were required to cope with ongoing requirement changes, indecision from management, and shrinking budgets; all of which affected the progress of moving these projects from the design board to a profitable production stage.
Speaker(s): Steve Simon,
Abstract:
A Windows Azure SQL Database can be used as a source or destination in SQL Server Integration Services and there is a good chance you'll be looking at this option soon. In this session we'll go over the basics of setting up this connection, best practices for how to load data into the cloud, and things to be aware of when Azure is your source database.
Speaker(s): MIKE DONNELLY,
Abstract:
In this session we will cover the basics of using Power Query + other tools to explore XML data from the SQLSaturday website. We will look at lesser-known features like XML feeds, harvesting data from other websites, and social media sources. We'll also use open source tools like Curl (a command line tool for downloading URLs) to augment the gathering of web data. We'll also demonstrate importing data into SQL Server for use with other Power BI components.
Speaker(s): Rob Volk,
Abstract:
Learn best practices to make your organization a center of BI excellence. I’ll walk you through top lessons learned during our implementation of an enterprise end-to-end BI solution, which is discussed in the Records Management Firm Saves $1 Million, Gains Faster Data Access with Microsoft BI case study published by Microsoft. Working experience with the dimensional modeling and the Microsoft BI stack is assumed.
Speaker(s): Teo Lachev,
Abstract:
In this session we will explore the multitude of ways that you can make your reports adapt to the needs of your users. This will include defining formats based on the data contents. We will explore how to refine layouts based on the data to be delivered. We will demonstrate how to create a parameter driven data source. We will take a look at how creating templates can give your catalog of reports a more professional look. All of this together will empower you to have more control over the reports you create.
Speaker(s): Pam Shaw,
Abstract:
How can you kill your server? Bad Practices? Bad Queries? This session I'll tell you about urban legends, true stories and horror stories!! Do not miss this opportunity to learn, how you can avoid!
Speaker(s): Jesus Gil Velasco,
Abstract:
Business line applications usually need some level of reporting capabilities. SQL Server Reporting Services is an extensible reporting platform that provides developers with a variety of options for developing business solutions. Join us to learn how to tackle some of the challenges that some scenarios may require and inject some business value into your applications with the help of Reporting Services.
Speaker(s): Guillermo Caicedo Santiago,
Abstract:
Business users have had to rely heavily on IT to get access to information they need to make business decisions. The need for self-service BI is a must in today's fast changing world. This session will explore the tools that Microsoft has made available in Excel to empower the end user to access information with close to zero support from IT. These tools include Power Query, PowerPivot, Power View, Power Map, and Apps for Office.
Speaker(s): Doug Cox,
Abstract:
Cube space; the final frontier. In this Star Trek themed introduction to MDX, we will discuss the fundamentals of cube structure and vocabulary, including tuples, members, sets, hierarchies, and more. We will introduce and demonstrate the basic syntax of MDX with queries that include navigating hierarchies and even some time-based expressions. This session will give you the tools you need to write simple, yet meaningful, MDX queries in your own environment.
Speaker(s): Mark Vaillancourt,
Abstract:
SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) 2012 added rounded corners and Undo/Redo to the designer, but what else was added to make this worth the upgrade? In this session there will be as many demos of the new features as we can get through! Along with the rounded corners, you will also see the changes to deployment, SSIS catalog database, metadata/XML updates, Parameters, logging updates, Data Taps, ODBC support, script debugging, PowerShell interface and many others. If you haven't seen what has been updated in SSIS 2012, this will be the session to cover the most!
Speaker(s): Steve Wake,
Abstract:
Explore some of the mistakes and misconceptions DBAs tend to have about SSIS. Also look at the performance and scalability of ETL vs ELT with real world examples and sample code.
Speaker(s): Paul Rizza,
Abstract:
IT jobs are notoriously short-lived, with most only lasting a few years. Very few people keep a single employer for their entire career. Knowing when, why, and how to leave your job is as important a career step as finding new work. Learn about how to use job transitions as opportunities to develop your career.
Speaker(s): Geoff Hiten,
Abstract:
The Tabular model is the new kid on the block in Analysis Services 2012. Join me in this introductory-level session where we'll quickly cover the differences between Tabular and Multidimensional models before diving into Visual Studio and creating a basic tabular model.
Speaker(s): Bill Anton,
This is a list of speakers from the XML Guidebook records. The details and URLs were valid at the time of the event.
BI Practice Manager for Scalability Experts. Andy has 18 years of experience designing, managing and implementing data warehouses. I have implemented data warehouses from small 5 GB to 100/s TB. His primary focus is business requirements, dimensional modeling, technical architecture designs, ETL design and implementation, reporting and analytics, and production support. Andy is a certified PDW instructor. Andy has helped the MS COE develop best practices for implementing PDW.
Jeffrey Wang has been a software developer for more than 15 years with the last 10 years dedicated to BI software development. He is currently the principal development lead of SQL Server BI Analytics Query Process team in charge of development of MDX and DAX query processors. He was one of the creators of DAX programming language used in Power Pivot, Power View, and tabular data models.
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/peterjsmyers
Peter Myers is a consultant, trainer and presenter, and has worked with Microsoft database and development products since 1997. Today he specializes in all Microsoft Business Intelligence products and also authors training course content for Microsoft products and services. He has a broad business background supported by a bachelor’s degree in applied economics and accounting, and he extends this with extensive experience backed by current MCSE certifications. He has been a Data Platform MVP since 2007.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/melsar93
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.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeystuewe/
Contact: http://www.MickeyStuewe.com
Mickey Stuewe has been working with SQL Server since 6.5. That gives her over 20 years of experience. She has not only been a database developer, but also an application developer, even before Visual Studio existed. She is now thankful to be focusing on database design, t-SQL development, and query optimization. She also has a habit of enjoying SSIS and data warehouse design. She blogs regularly on her website mickeystuewe.com and contributes to sites such as SQL Server Central and SQL Server Pro. She enjoys presenting at PASS Summit, SQLSaturdays, User Groups and other events. When she is not immersed in SQL related activities, she enjoys action movies, art, reading, and laughing. She laughs loudly and often...just ask her children.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/douglasvcox
Contact: http://feixidad.wordpress.com/
With over 20 years’ experience in Information Technology, Doug has dedicated the last decade to working with various Business Intelligence tools ranging from on-premises to the Cloud. He blogs, speaks, and teaches about all things BI. He holds an MCSE in Data Management and Analytics and another in Cloud Platform and Infrastructure. Doug lives with his wife and daughters in Charlotte, North Carolina, and enjoys gaming, hiking, and traveling.
LinkedIn: http://nz.linkedin.com/in/rezarad/
Contact: http://radacad.com/blog
Reza Rad is a Microsoft Regional Director, MVP, author, trainer, speaker and consultant. He is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP for nine years from 2011. Reza wrote many books on Power BI subjects including the Power BI from Rookie to Rock Star, and Pro Power BI Architecture. Reza is the invited speaker at the world's well-known conferences such as Microsoft Ignite, Microsoft Business Applications Summit, Ignite Tour, PASS Summit, and many other conferences. Reza is an active blogger and writes regularly about Power BI at https://radacad.com.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/bill-anton/12/526/4bb
Contact: http://byobi.com/blog/
Bill Anton is an expert in Analysis Services and an experienced data warehouse practitioner. In 2013, he founded Opifex Solutions, a consulting firm with deep expertise in enterprise-scale architecture, design, and performance optimization of Analysis Services and Power BI solutions. He loves eating and spends most of his free time convincing his beloved wife to adopt more golden retrievers.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-volk-134ba81
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.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/gcaicedo/
Contact: http://www.sqltitan.com
Guillermo Caicedo es un profesional de bases de datos y tecnolog#237;a trabajando como Consultor en Nagnoi, LLC. Ha ayudado a numerosas empresas a obtener conocimiento sobre sus datos por desarrollar e implementar soluciones de inteligencia empresarial en sus organizaciones. El Sr. Caicedo tambi#233;n tiene una amplia experiencia desarrollando aplicaciones web y m#243;viles. Guillermo es un Data Platform MVP y l#237;der del Cap#237;tulo PASS para Puerto Rico (PRPASS).
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/pswaters
Paul has over 20 years of experience working in IT-related fields. Over the past 15 years, he has focused on Business Intelligence. Paul was the Technical Editor for the book quot;Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services Problem-Design-Solutionquot; and contributed to the Wrox book quot;Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services Recipes: for Designing Expert Reports.quot;
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deknight/
Contact: http://devinknightsql.com
Devin Knight a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and the Training Director at Pragmatic Works. He is an author of seven SQL Server and Business Intelligence books and speaks at conferences like PASS Summit, PASS Business Analytics Conference, SQLSaturdays and Code Camps. He is also a contributing member to several PASS Virtual Chapters. Making his home in Jacksonville, FL, Devin is the Vice President of the local Power BI User Group and SQL Server User Group (JSSUG).
Contact: http://www.prologika.com
Teo Lachev is a consultant, author, and mentor, who specializes in implementing BI solutions. His Atlanta-based company "Prologika" (Microsoft Gold BI partner) helps organizations make sense of data by effectively applying BI technologies. Teo has authored and co-authored several SQL Server BI books. He founded and has been leading the Atlanta BI group. Microsoft has recognized Teo's experience and contribution by awarding him the MVP award for 10 consecutive years.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/josechinchilla
Contact: http://www.sqljoe.com
Jose Chinchilla is an experienced data analytics professional with multiple certifications including Microsoft Certified Database Administration (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Data Management and Analytics (MCSE), and Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT). Jose specializes in Data Warehouse and Data Lake Architecture and Development as the Data Analytics Practice Lead at AgileThought, a full-service custom software and analytics consulting firm based in Tampa, FL. Jose is a book author (SQL 2012 Bible, Professional SQL Server 2012 Administration, Exam Ref 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse 2016) and leads the Tampa Bay BI Data Analytics PASS Chapter in Tampa, FL.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/christopher-bell/19/a08/93/
Contact: https://www.wateroxconsulting.com/
Chris Bell offers a unique view of how we live and work with data, both now and as we head into the future. Having braved many roles, lifecycles, and battles in the IT world, he has honed his DBA (Database Administration or Do 'Bout Anything) skills in Information Systems and development, focusing on SQL Server. Currently, he serves as the lead DBA at The Motley Fool. You can keep up with Chris' thoughts and technical community activities at WaterOxConsulting.com.
Contact: https://onlysearch.wordpress.com/
Allan Mitchell is a SQL Server MVP and runs elastio, a small consultancy helping customers to make informed decisions about their data storage and integration. His focus is on enterprise search as well as real-time data integration.
Mike has been a SQL Server developer/dba/architect for over 15 years. He's worked for several Fortune 500 companies including Sprint, Nextel and Bank of America and specializes in working with big data. He lives in Matthews, NC with his wife, 4 kids and 3 dogs. He has spoken at SQLSaturday in Atlanta and Richmond and he travels to SQLSaturdays for some quiet time!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffhiten
Geoff Hiten is a Technical Solutions Professional at Microsoft. Geoff began working with SQL Server in 1992 with version 4.2 and has used every version since. He specializes in highly available SQL systems, performance tuning, and systems migration. Geoff is heavily involved in the Microsoft SQL Server Community and was initially awarded MVP status in 2004. Geoff was appointed in 2011 to fill an interim Director position at the National PASS organization.
Contact: http://www.jenstirrup.com
Jen is a database strategist, small business owner, SQLFamily and community advocate, public speaker and blogger. Jen was elected Director-At-Large (elect) for the Professional Association of SQL Server, responsible for the EMEA regions plus the Virtual Chapter portfolio. Jen is passionate about all things data and business intelligence, helping leaders derive value from their Microsoft SQL Server, SharePoint and Office365 investments.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhorner
Contact: http://blog.jasonhorner.com
Hi, my name is Jason I'm a practice lead at Redapt. I spend most of my day helping clients solve business problems mostly in the Data and Advanced Analytics spaces. Sometimes this involves various and sundry cloud technologies including Azure Data Factory, Azure SQL Data Warehouse, Azure Data Lake Store, Azure Databricks, HDInsight and Azure SQL Database. I'm fluent in several languages including: SQL, C#, Python, and PowerShell. I'm a Microsoft Certified Master of SQL Server (MCM) and have been recognized for my technical excellence and evangelism efforts by Microsoft by being awarded the Most Valuable Professional (MVP) for the last 5+ years. In my off hours I like to snowboard, karaoke, ride roller coasters, and play arcade games
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/markvsql/
Contact: http://markvsql.com
Mark is a Data Solutions Architect for Microsoft, helping organizations design data solutions in Azure. He has been working with Microsoft data technologies since 2007. Before joining Microsoft, he was a Business Intelligence consultant and two-time Microsoft Data Platform MVP. With a background in Theater and Improvised Comedy, Mark makes sure that his presentations are both informative and fun.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/brentgreenwood
Contact: http://brentgreenwood.blogspot.com/
Brent Greenwood, MS, MCITP, CBIP, is a PowerPivot junkie and long-time Microsoft BI Pro with 13+ years of experience in the data analysis, data warehousing, and business intelligence crafts. He's delivered solutions and worn lots of different hats in a variety of verticals, including Investment Management, Brokerage, Insurance Services, Healthcare, and Higher Education. Most importantly, Brent is a cycling enthusiast and loves riding and building prototypes with AdventureWorks cycling data.
LinkedIn: http://uk.linkedin.com/in/neilhambly
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.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/juliekoesmarno
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.
Contact: http://www.markvsql.com
Mark is an Information Management consultant for Digineer, a Microsoft partner based in Plymouth, MN. He has been working with SQL Server for 5 years and holds the MCITP – Business Intelligence Developer 2008 certification. With a background in Theater and Improvised Comedy, Mark makes sure that his presentations are both informative and fun.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/staciavarga
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.
Contact: http://microsoft.com/bigdata
Rick Hallihan and Bill Carroll are members of Microsoft’s HDInsight Support team in Charlotte NC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sqlvariant
Contact: http://sqlvariant.com/
Aaron Nelson is an author, public speaker, blogger, and leader in the community. He has over 15 years of experience in architecture, Business Intelligence, development, and performance tuning of SQL Server. Aaron has received many certifications and is a six time winner of the Microsoft MVP Award. Aaron leads the PowerShell Virtual Group of PASS (SQLPS.io), is a board member of PowerShell.org, and is a volunteer at his PASS Local Group, AtlantaMDF.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/pshaw1129/
Contact: http://sqlpam.wordpress.com/
Pam Shaw has been in IT for over 30 years. Since 2001, Pam has been working with SQL Server, first 2000, then 2005, 2008, 2008 R2, 2012 and now 2014. Pam currently works as a BI Developer as an independent contractor. Pam is also the Chapter Leader of the Hillsborough SQL Users Group PASS chapter and organizer of SQLSaturday Tampa.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/AndyLeonard
Contact: https://andyleonard.blog
Andy Leonard is founder and Chief Data Engineer at Enterprise Data Analytics, Microsoft Data Platform MVP, creator of the DILM (Data Integration Lifecycle Management) Suite, an SSIS trainer, consultant, developer, Business Intelligence Markup Language (Biml) developer and BimlHero, SQL Server database and data warehouse developer, community mentor, engineer, and farmer. He is a co-author of "The Biml Book and SQL Server Integration Services Design Patterns" and author of "Managing Geeks - A Journey of Leading by Doing", "Data Integration Lifecycle Management with SSIS", "Building Custom Tasks for SSIS", and the "Stairway to Integration Services". Andy blogs at andyleonard.blog where you can learn more on the About Andy page.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=29648544amp;trk=hb_tab_pro_top
Contact: http://Thomas-LeBlanc.com
Thomas LeBlanc (Microsoft Data Platform MVP) is a Data Warehouse Architect in Baton Rouge, and uses his 30+ years in IT to develop OLTP systems with normalized databases for high-performing T-SQL and dimensional data marts. Development is done in SSIS, SSAS, SSRS, Power BI, and Excel. As a PASS volunteer, he is past chair of Excel BI and Data Arch VCs and is active in the Baton Rouge Analytics and SQL Server User groups, as well as SQLSaturday in Baton Rouge. You can find his blog at TheSmilingDBA.BlogSpot.com and website at Thomas-LeBlanc.com
Contact: http://www.sqlbn.com
Jose L is a SQL Server MCITP and MCT with over 10 years of experience developing Business Intelligence solutions using SQL Server technologies, among others. He currently works as Consultant at Nagnoi, Inc. as well as College professor at University of Phoenix. In addition, he shares his knowledge and perspectives as PRPASS Vice President and Community Leader, Co-Leader for the Azure and Global Spanish virtual chapters and frequent speaker at user groups and SQLSaturday events, among others.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mladenprajdic
Contact: http://weblogs.sqlteam.com/mladenp
Mladen Prajdić is a Data Platform MVP from Slovenia. He's been programming for 20 years, developing different types of applications in .Net (C#) and SQL Server, ranging from standard line-of-business, image-processing applications to high performace and IoT applications. He's a regular speaker at various conferences and usergroup meetings, really likes to optimize slow SQL statements, analyze performance, and find unconventional solutions to difficult SQL Server problems. In his free time, he also develops a very popular add-in for SSMS, called the SSMS Tools Pack (www.ssmstoolspack.com).
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/b5lurker
Contact: http://blog.wakebi.com
Steve Wake is currently the Principal BI Developer at Brown and Caldwell and has experience in consulting, advertising, media, manufacturing, retail, charities, telecommunications and financial services organizations using the full on-premises Microsoft BI stack. Recent experience with the Azure services: Analysis Services, Logic Apps, Data Factory, Databricks, Snowflake and Power BI. Steve is also very involved in the SQL community, speaking at events around the world.
Contact: http://www.msbicentral.com
Wayne Snyder specializes in Business Intelligence solutions and is an international speaker, author, and PASS volunteer. He is a SQL Server MVP and author of the popular Learnkey SQL Server Training series. He is a Distinguished Architect for Mariner (www.mariner-usa.com), who on the weekend sings and plays keyboards for the regional band soundbarrier (www.soundbarrierband.com).
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dataonwheels
Contact: http://www.dataonwheels.com
Steve Hughes is the Director of Consulting at Pragmatic Works. In his current role, Steve manages the consultant team at Pragmatic Works and directs implementation of our cloud practices for customers. He focuses on team development and company growth with this role. In his previous role as a Principal Consultant Lead, he focused designing solutions for customers on Microsoft technologies including SQL Server, Power BI, and Azure. He has been working with technology for over 20 years with much of that time spent on creating business intelligence solutions and helping customers implement leading BI and cloud solutions. He is passionate about using data effectively and helping customers understand that data is valuable and profitable.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeystuewe/
Contact: http://www.MickeyStuewe.com
Mickey Stuewe has been working with SQL Server since 6.5. That gives her over 20 years of experience. She has not only been a database developer, but also an application developer, even before Visual Studio existed. She is now thankful to be focusing on database design, t-SQL development, and query optimization. She also has a habit of enjoying SSIS and data warehouse design. She blogs regularly on her website mickeystuewe.com and contributes to sites such as SQL Server Central and SQL Server Pro. She enjoys presenting at PASS Summit, SQLSaturdays, User Groups and other events. When she is not immersed in SQL related activities, she enjoys action movies, art, reading, and laughing. She laughs loudly and often...just ask her children.
Jesus Gil (Dr. Rudo SQL) es un experto en SQL con mas de 10 años de experiencia y un speaker habitual de los SQL-Saturday en Latinoamérica. Es el primer MVP de SQL Server para México, reconocimiento que ha ganado desde el año 2010. Es co-autor de la Guia Oficial de Microsoft Corp. para la Migración de SQL Server 2012 y es colaborador de revistas, tanto nacionales como internacionales. Para Microsoft México genero el contenido del diplomado técnico y de Negocios sobre BI con SQL2012.
Contact: http://microsoft.com/bigdata
Gregory Suarez and Dan Shaver are members of Microsoft’s HDInsight Support team in Charlotte NC.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/prizza/
Contact: http://blogs.msdn.com/b/paulrizza/
Paul Rizza is a Senior Consultant at Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS), Lead on the MCS SQL Hiring Team, and has over 25 years’ experience consulting, teaching and developing on SQL Server platforms. Paul’s expertise includes ETLs, Dimensional modeling, architecting highly available SQL environments and performance tuning. Paul has an Undergraduate degree from UMBC and a Master’s degree both in Computer Science with a concentration in Database Theory from Johns Hopkins University.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenrsimon/
Contact: http://www.sqlservercentral.com/blogs/simon_says/
Steve Simon is a Database Solutions Architect with Business Knowledge Services Inc. He has been involved with database design and analysis for over 35 years. Steve has presented papers at numerous PASS Summits and PASS SQL Rallies. He is also regular presenter on the SQLSaturday circuit and he is a contributor on SQLShack.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/JamesSerra
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”.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timmitchell/
Contact: http://www.TimMitchell.net
Tim Mitchell is a business intelligence architect, author, and trainer. He has worked with SQL Server for over a decade, specializing in data warehousing, ETL/SSIS, and reporting. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from Texas AM at Commerce, and is recognized as a Microsoft Data Platform MVP. Tim is a business intelligence consultant and principal at Tyleris Data Solutions. Tim is an active community speaker and volunteer, having spoken at over 100 events including the PASS Summit, SQLBits, Dev Connections, SQL Intersection, and scores of SQLSaturdays. He blogs at TimMitchell.net, and tweets at @Tim_Mitchell.
Contact: http://www.benjaminnevarez.com/
Benjamin Nevarez is a SQL Server MVP and independent consultant based in Los Angeles, California who specializes in SQL Server query tuning and optimization. He is the author of “SQL Server 2014 Query Tuning Optimization”, “Inside the SQL Server Query Optimizer” and has contributed to other SQL Server books including “SQL Server 2012 Internals”. Benjamin has also been a speaker at many SQL Server conferences, including the PASS Summit, SQL Server Connections and SQLBits.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/johncwelch/
Contact: http://agilebi.com/jwelch
John Welch joined SentryOne in spring 2018 as VP of Engineering with the acquisition by SentryOne of the software division of Pragmatic Works. John leads the development of a suite of products that make developing, managing, and documenting data solutions easier. John has been successfully delivering IT solutions to business problems since 1994, and has been focused on business intelligence and data warehousing technologies since 2001. He is a Microsoft Most Valued Professional (MVP), and a frequent presenter on SQL Server and data topics. He also contributes to several open source projects and community initiatives targeted toward making data professionals work more productive.
I have worked in Microsoft Support for 14 years at the Charlotte, NC site. For most of this time, I have been on the SQL Server Developer Support team, specializing in SSIS.
The following is a list of sponsors that helped fund the event.