TruTek

Writing Optimal SQL Agenda

Session 1

1.5 hours

Background.

In which we examine the need for a global view point and a general strategy for minimising work while recognizing that there will always be a conflict between local and global optimization. A quick review of use of indexes, including some of the less common uses and common errors in index design. Closing with the need to be able to investigate and understand the data and business requirements.

Break: coffee and informal discussion: 30 minutes

Session 2

1.5 hours

Basic Practices

How to approach the task of translating business requirments into SQL. The need for clarity in code, with a suggested set of standards for presentation to improve ease of understanding. An introduction to the essential strategy for writing SQL that gets its result by doing the minimum work, and a model for investigating and re-engineering badly performing statements.

Break: Lunch and informal discussion: 1 hour

Session 3

1.5 hours

Sundry Methods

A few examples demonstrating classic problems and their solutions that use some of the less well-known features of SQL. A brief discussion of the mechanics (and costing) of nested loop and hash joins. Warnings about the abuse of views, and the problems of predicates. And a few closing comments about tuning distributed queries.

Break: coffee and informal discussion: 30 minutes

Session 4

1.5 hours

More Methods

Fixing the code without touching the code the latest option. Problems and options with knowing internal mechanisms and taking advantage of them. A little time with OEM, and a look at the threats of hints and how to use them properly.