Event Location:
Microsoft Executive Briefing Center Fargo
4550 42nd Street South
Fargo, North Dakota
Abstract:
Microsoft SQL Server makes it simple to apply data mining algorithms to a wide variety of data. Applying the results to business decisions without a thorough understanding of how the algorithms work is dangerous to the bottom line of the business, though. This session will take one of the algorithms, the Microsoft Clustering Algorithm, and do a deep dive into the mechanics of how it works. The algorithm is valuable for analyzing data in the fields of marketing, social networks and many others. The session will also examine the types of data that are valid for clustering. A demonstration of building a clustering model using SQL Server Analysis Services and viewing the model using the Excel Data Mining Add-In will be given.
Speaker(s): Eric Ness,
Abstract:
As the old adage goes, 'Garbage in, garbage out.' Stop spending hours manually cleansing your data, and start using DQS! DQS is the new data quality tool provided with SQL Server 2012. By leveraging knowledge bases, you can correct invalid data and improve the quality of your data. In this session we will cover creating a knowledge base, data cleansing, data matching, and using 3rd party knowledge bases (Reference Data). We will talk about installation, show how to use the DQS tool, and how to integrate DQS into your SSIS packages. After this session you should have a good understanding of what DQS is, how to use it, and how to get started with your own Data Quality initiative.
Speaker(s): Jeff Prom,
Abstract:
In this presentation Aaron will cover how to collect data from multiple sources using SQL Server 2012 Integration Services (SSIS). Then he will use SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) to report detail on that data. After that he will use SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) to create a KPI. Finally he’ll present that KPI on a dashboard via a web page. The goal of this presentation is to show how seamless the Microsoft Business Intelligence products are. If you’ve only used a few of these products, you’ll appreciate seeing them together all at once. Code will be provided.
Speaker(s): Aaron King,
Abstract:
If you have not experienced building BI solutions with Excel 2010, be amazed at what you can do in Excel 2013. In this session we will use PowerPivot, Power View, Quick Explorer, and other great features in Excel to build an Excel 2013 BI solution. Microsoft has went "all-in" with Excel as their primary BI client. If you want to get a first hand look at using it more fully, you will be amazed. I know I was.
Speaker(s): Steve Hughes,
Abstract:
You have been writing T-SQL for years but just haven't had time to learn about the new features. Attend this session to take your T-SQL skills to the next level. We'll cover the new analytic functions that can help you write highly performing queries with less effort than the old techniques.
Speaker(s): Kathi Kellenberger,
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,
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,
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 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,
Abstract:
There are index options in SQL Server that can enhance the performance of your queries - but most likely, you aren't using them! If you have a solid knowledge of index basics and want to add to your collection, this is the session for you! I'll show you how filtered indexes, compressed indexes, and indexed views work and can improve performance!
Speaker(s): Jes Schultz,
Abstract:
What is Table Partitioning? How can it be used to enhance performance? How can it be used with a data archiving strategy to quickly and easily drop archived data from a table? We will discuss the practical applications of table partitioning using scripts to generate new table partitions, move a partition to another table and discussion on how this can benefit you.
Speaker(s): Eric Zierdt,
Abstract:
Learn the options for encryption in SQL Server, covering hashing, symmetric keys, asymmetric keys, and encrypted communications.
Speaker(s): Steve Jones,
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,
Abstract:
With PowerShell and SQLPSX your DBA life can be a lot simpler. SMO is powerful, but can be difficult to use. Enter SQLPSX. Chad Miller put together a set of PowerShell functions that streamline the use of SMO, easing management of a multi-server environment. Come learn when and how the addition of PowerShell and SQLPSX can benefit you.
Speaker(s): Jim Dorame,
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 forum as we try6 to determine how, as DBAs, we can position ourselves for a bright and productive future. I'll talk about trends I'm seeing in companies of all shapes and sizes. This presentation isn't about concensus, but about tackling tough issues facing the future of our profession.
Speaker(s): Scott Shaw,
Abstract:
Deadlocks can be very tricky, unpredictable and generally nasty. Is all hope lost? This demo-intensive session will explore several types of deadlocks and give you some insight into how to track them down and prevent them. We wil start with a quick review of locking and blocking concepts, then take a deep-dive into deadlock demos.
Speaker(s): Michael DeFehr,
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,
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,
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:
Having multiple database files and filegroups is one of many strategies to improve performance and make administration easier. What are filegroups, and how do you use them? In this session, I'll show you how to create filegroups, create objects in them or move objects to them, and discuss how they can help performance. I'll also cover Enterprise-level features like piecemeal restores.
Speaker(s): Jes Schultz,
Abstract:
Begin using F# for Data Analysis. Learn how to take advantage of this function-based language to tackle advanced analysis. I will walk through what F# is, and why it is a great tool for data analysis. This presentation will be full of demonstrations on how to use F# with data sets, analysis models, and data visualization. Supplement your SQL data analysis with the F# functional language, which is ideal for solving complex analytical problems.
Speaker(s): Ross McNeely,
This is a list of speakers from the XML Guidebook records. The details and URLs were valid at the time of the event.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kathikellenberger
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.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonstrate/
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.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/eric-ness/5/228/383
Eric Ness has over ten years of experience in IT with a focus on data management and business intelligence on the Microsoft SQL Server platform during the last five. He tackles a variety of BI challenges as a Business Intelligence Consultant at Superior Consulting Services. He also currently serves as the Education Officer for the Minnesota chapter of DAMA. Eric has presented at SQLSaturdays in Minnesota and Iowa as well as Enterprise Data World 2012.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kathikellenberger
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.
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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trendoid
Contact: http://www.aaronstanleyking.com
Aaron King is an application architect specializing in enterprise web applications and very large databases. He has helped several successful startups move to the software plus services model. He is currently working as an independent consultant on several long term engagements. Aaron is also a community leader and active in Indy PASS.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jesborland
Contact: https://blogs.lessthandot.com/author/jes-borland
Jes Schultz is a Software Engineer with Microsoft who has experience with a wide range of SQL Server features from version 2005 through 2019, and is on the cutting edge with Azure technologies. Since graduating Fox Valley Technical College with an IT-Programmer/Analyst degree, Jes has worked as an SSRS developer, DBA, and consultant. Before joining Microsoft, Jes was a six-time Data Platform MVP, recognized for her community work. Jes tackles every project and problem with tenacity and her enthusiasm is unmatched in the SQL Server community. In her free time, Jes never stops moving, and counts fitness, coffee, cooking, and travel as essentials in life.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/way0utwest
Contact: http://www.voiceofthedba.com/
Steve Jones is a Microsoft SQL Server MVP and has been working with SQL Server since version 4.2 on OS/2. After working as a DBA and developer for a variety of companies, Steve co-founded the community website SQLServerCentral.com in 2001. Since 2004, Steve has been the full-time editor of the site, ensuring it continues to be a great resource for SQL Server professionals. Over the last decade, Steve has written hundreds of articles about SQL Server for SQLServerCentral.com, SQL Server Standard magazine, SQL Server Magazine, and Database Journal.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jesborland
Contact: https://blogs.lessthandot.com/author/jes-borland
Jes Schultz is a Software Engineer with Microsoft who has experience with a wide range of SQL Server features from version 2005 through 2019, and is on the cutting edge with Azure technologies. Since graduating Fox Valley Technical College with an IT-Programmer/Analyst degree, Jes has worked as an SSRS developer, DBA, and consultant. Before joining Microsoft, Jes was a six-time Data Platform MVP, recognized for her community work. Jes tackles every project and problem with tenacity and her enthusiasm is unmatched in the SQL Server community. In her free time, Jes never stops moving, and counts fitness, coffee, cooking, and travel as essentials in life.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jeff-prom/7/1b7/bb1/
Contact: http://jeffprom.com/
Jeff Prom is a Data and BI Developer with over 15 years experience. From a wide variety of industries, he has worked at corportations both large and small including several global fortune 50 companies. Jeff is an active member in the SQL community and regularly speaks and attends user groups and conferences. He has earned MCTS certifications for Database Development, Administration, and BI. Jeff is currently employed at Silver Bay Realty Trust Corp as a Data Architect in Minnesota.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davidaklee
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.
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: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdorame
Contact: http://www.jamesdorame.com/
Jim Dorame has been working with SQL Server for over 20 years. Over those years he has learned a great deal from the SQL community. He has also given back to the community in the hopes that he may help someone in their career. He is always looking for something to learn and luckily Microsoft keeps adding to SQL Server.
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.
Contact: http://www.dbaexperience.com
Scott Shaw is the co-author of two T-SQL books through Apress publishing. He is a frequent speaker at community events and most recently spoke at the 2013 SQL PASS Summit. He is co-chair of the SQL PASS Virtual Chapter on Virtualization and teaches classes at both Washington University CAIT program and Saint Louis University. Scott lives in Saint Louis with his wife and 2 children. He is a Principal Consultant for Oakwood Systems Group.
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/ericzierdt
Contact: http://ericemployed.blogspot.com
Eric is a level 70 Data Slayer, who has worked with SQL Server since 2000. Eric has worked with benefit systems, real estate data, marketing, game data, and medical device data. Eric enjoys performance tuning, T-SQL programming, and SQL Server Administration.
Contact: http://mcneelydwbi.wordpress.com
Ross McNeely, BI Practice Manager, C2 IT Solutions Ross has presented at several SQLSaturday events in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Recently, Ross adds real-world examples from the Financial Services, Logistics, and Retail industries in his presentations. Regardless if you have a beginner, intermediate, or advanced skill set, Ross will provide a solid foundation for each topic he presents. Please join Ross McNeely for a fun and informative meeting.
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.
LinkedIn: http://ca.linkedin.com/in/mdefehr
Contact: http://mikedefehr.com
Michael DeFehr is an independent SQL Server consultant based in Winnipeg, Canada. He is focused on database administration and development using Microsoft SQL Server. A SQL Server MVP, Professional Engineer and MCITP in both Database Development and Administration, Mike has spent the past 15 years producing and maintaining database solutions. Mike specializes in the relational and storage engines and his solutions emphasize performance and simplicity.
The following is a list of sponsors that helped fund the event.