Topic: Using XML to Query Execution Plans

Sponsored by Computer Associates, Inc.

Date: July 28, 2010 Noon Eastern Time

Presenter: Jason Strate

Abstract:

SQL Server stores its execution plans as XML in dynamic management views. The execution plans are a gold mine of information. From the whether or not the execution plan will rely on parallelism to what columns are requiring a key lookup after a non-clustered index seek. Through a the use of XML this information can be available at your fingertips to help determine the value and impact of an index and guide you in improving the performance of your SQL Server databases. In this session we'll look at how you can begin to understand and query the structure of the execution plans in the procedure cache. Also, we'll review how to uncover some potential performance issues that may be lurking in your SQL Server.

Speaker Bio:

Jason Strate, Digineer Inc, is a database architect and administrator with over twelve years of experience. In July 2009, he was awarded Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional) for SQL Server. His experience includes design and implementation of both OLTP and OLAP solutions as well as assessment and implementation of SQL Server environments for best practices, performance, and high availability solutions. Jason is a SQL Server MCITP and participated in the development of Microsoft Certification exams for SQL Server 2008. He is actively involved with the local PASS chapter (SQL Server User Group) and is currently serving as the Director of Program Development. In the past year, Jason has presented at the 2009 PASS Summit, SSWUG Virtual Conferences, TechFuse 2009/2010, SQL Saturdays, and at PASSMN user group meetings.

Door Prize: There will be a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift certificate.

Registration: You can attend the meeting without registering but if you want to be entered in the drawing, you must register at

https://www.livemeeting.com/lrs/8000181573/Registration.aspx?pageName=74s3gdjkcktmlnkv

no later than 5:00 PM Eastern on July 27th.

Live Meeting Link: https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/usergroups/join?id=Q7CT4H&role=attend