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11 Rules of the Road for DBAs.
zJournal, December 2009 / January 2010.
Sometimes the non-
A Data-
Database Trends and Applications, December 2009.
In this month's edition of DBA Corner I take a look back at the year that was in terms of the data and database management market this past year.
Collecting Histogram Statistics With RUNSTATS.
zJournal, October / November 2009.
Among the many new enhancements that have found their way into DB2 9 for z/OS is the ability to gather histogram statistics with the IBM RUNSTATS utility.
You Can't Force Data Quality.
Database Trends and Applications, November 2009.
This month's DBA CORNER deals with the never-
Just the Facts About Mainframe Specialty Processors.
The Data Administration Newsletter, November 2009.
Over the course of the past decade or so, IBM has introduced several different types of specialty processors. The basic idea of a specialty processor is that it augments the main general purpose CPUs and specific workloads are shuttled to the specialty processors.
Making Static SQL More Dynamic...and Vice Versa.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Fall 2009 (November).
SQL can be either static or dynamic. But the differences between static and dynamic SQL are lessening over time. And IBM has added features that blur the differences between the two. This article examines ways to make dynamic SQL more static... and static SQL more dynamic... because not everything is always black or white.
New Additions to the DBA Bookshelf.
Database Trends and Applications, October 2009.
As my regular readers know, I am an avid reader, especially of technology books. And every now and then I review some of the more interesting database-
An Overview of Mainframe Specialty Processors.
Quest Pipelines, October 2009.
If you are a mainframer you will have at least heard about specialty processors -
The Database Report: 3Q2009.
The Data Administration Newsletter, October 2009.
The third quarter installment of "The Database Report" column covering the on-
Specialty Processors on the Mainframe.
Database Trends and Applications, September 2009.
If you use an IBM z Series mainframe you've undoubtedly heard about zIIPs and zAAPs and other specialty processors. But maybe you haven't examined them in-
DISPLAY Your Way Out of DB2 Problems.
zJournal, August / September 2009.
Although robust performance and administration tools are probably the best solution for gathering information about your DB2 subsystems and databases, you can gain significant insight into your DB2 environment simply using the DISPLAY command.
Managing Data Resources During Mergers and Acquisitions.
Database Trends and Applications, August 2009.
Managing an ever-
An Overview of Mainframe Specialty Processors.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Summer 2009 (August).
Most everyone who uses an IBM z Series mainframe has at least heard about zIIPs and zAAPs and perhaps other specialty processors. But maybe you haven't done any real investigation into what they are, what they do, and why they exist. So, with that in mind, this article takes you on a brief journey into the world of specialty processors!
Database Security Needs Evolve and Grow.
Database Trends and Applications, July 2009.
Protecting the data in our enterprise databases is extremely important. But what exactly does that mean? And what are the repercussions of managing database security in the age of compliance and Internet-
The Database Report: 2Q2009.
The Data Administration Newsletter, July 2009.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Sexond quarter of 2009, spanning April thru June -
Are DBAs Really DBAs Today?
zJournal, June / July 2009.
So just what does the job of database administrator entail today? Are there really DBAs doing just DBA work any more? What else is required? And is the title DBA still relevant?
Avoid Black Boxes to Improve Performance.
Database Trends and Applications, June 2009.
This article focuses on debunking the practice of creating "black box" access routines that sit between application programs and DB2. Such configurations remove the requirement for programmers to know how to code SQL-
Advice for Job-
Database Trends and Applications, May 2009.
This month's column offers up some advice and guidance to job-
Thoughts on Data Quality.
The Data Administration Newsletter, May 2009.
This short article discusses a thorny problem -
DB2 System Configuration and Performance.
zJournal, April / May 2009.
In this month's edition of z/Data Perspectives we take a peak under the covers of DB2 to examine the impact of system configuration issues (e.g. DSNZPARMs) on DB2 performance.
25 Questions to Evaluate DBA Tool Vendors.
Database Trends and Applications, April 2009.
This month's column offers a checklist of questions to help you evaluate DBA tools and vendors.
The Database Report: 1Q2009.
The Data Administration Newsletter, April 2009.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the First quarter of 2009, spanning January thru March.
Utility Improvements in DB2 9 for z/OS.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Spring 2009.
Every new release of DB2 brings with it new functionality and improvements for the IBM DB2 utilities. And DB2 Version 9 is no exception. So let’s take a high level look at the many enhancements made to the utilities in DB2 9 for z/OS.
The Impact of M+A on Data Management. (link no longer active)
Data Center Journal, March 2009.
Managing an ever-
Dynamic SQL On The Rise.
Database Trends and Applications, March 2009.
This month's column focuses on the importance of gathering appropriate database statistics to enable the optimizer to formulate efficient access paths to your data.
Recovery is a Compliance Issue.
zJournal, February / March 2009.
This month's z/Data Perspectives column examines the regulatory compliance implications of database backup and recovery.
Ten Steps for Mitigating Data Risk During a Merger.
CIO Magazine, February 2009.
Getting a handle on all of the data in your post-
Database Statistics and Optimization.
Database Trends and Applications, February 2009.
This month's column focuses on the importance of gathering appropriate database statistics to enable the optimizer to formulate efficient access paths to your data.
10 Steps for Mitigating Data Risk During a Merger.
ComputerWorld, February 24, 2009.
Getting a handle on all of the data in your post-
Database Fundamentals.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Winter 2008/2009.
A back to basics review of the fundamentals of data, databases, and database management concepts, issues, and terminology.
The Database Report: 4Q2008.
The Data Administration Newsletter, January 2009.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Fourth quarter of 2008, spanning October thru December.
DBA Proverbs.
zJournal, December / January 2009.
This month in z/Data Perspectives we take a look at wisdom handed down through the ages that can be applied toward becoming a better database administrator... if you are creative!
DBA Staffing Considerations.
Database Trends and Applications, January 2009.
Staffing the DBA organization is not a simple matter. Several non trivial considerations must be addressed, including the size of the DBA staff and the reporting structure for the DBAs.
A Data-
Database Trends and Applications, December 2008.
In this month's edition of DBA Corner I take a look back at the year that was in terms of the data and database management market this past year.
Data, Data, Everywhere.
Database Trends and Applications, November 2008.
Data is expanding rapidly in today's corporations, but we are also expanding our personal use of data.
Things You've Probably Neglected.
IDUG Solutions Journal, November 2008.
Even the most diligent DBAs have probably neglected one, if not more, of the things I cover in this article!
DB2 Database Maintenance and Recovery: Getting Past the Common Misconceptions.
zJournal, October / November 2008.
Some misconceptions exist because they’ve been passed down from older generations. But in terms of DB2, best practices for older DB2 versions may no longer be best. This article examines several common misconceptions about DB2 maintenance and recovery. (co-
Reoptimizing SQL.
zJournal, October / November 2008.
This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine ways to re-
Safeguarding Financial Data from the Foxes in the Henhouse.
Houston Business Journal, October 10-
Auditing who did what to which data when... and how... is a crucial requirement for financial data, especially given the increasing role of regulatory compliance on financial institutions and the data they manage.
Change Control for DB2 Access Paths.
Database Trends and Applications, October 2008.
This article discusses best practices methodologies for assuring optimal performance by rigorously controlling changes to your DB2 plans and packages.
The Database Report: 3Q2008.
The Data Administration Newsletter, October 2008.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the third quarter of 2008, spanning July thru September.
What Every Good CIO Needs to Know About Mainframe Database Auditing.
Mainframe Executive, September 2008.
Regulatory compliance has become a critical aspect of the IT landscape, and is a big component of every CIO’s job... and nowhere is compliance more crucial than in mainframe database management. A growing number of regulations dictate increased efforts be made to better secure and protect the accuracy and privacy of enterprise data. Since the most valuable enterprise data frequently is stored in a mainframe database, organizations must implement more robust auditing capabilities into their DB2 and IMS environments.
On Becoming a DBA.
Database Trends and Applications, September 2008.
This month's DBA Corner column tackles one of the most common questions I am asked: "How can I become a DBA?"
DB2 9 Data Format "Stuff".
zJournal, August / September 2008.
This month in z/Data Perspectives we take a look at all of the new features and functionality that impact the format of DB2 databases and structures.
Database Auditing Capabilities for Compliance and Security.
The Data Administration Newsletter, August 2008.
As the list of government regulations that organizations must understand and comply with grows, the compliance pressure intensifies on the data stored in corporate databases. Data professionals need to be more vigilant in the techniques used to protect their company’s data, as well as to monitor and ensure that sufficient protection is in place. Such requirements are driving new and improved software methods and techniques. One of these techniques is database auditing.
The 17 Skills Required of a DBA.
Database Trends and Applications, August 2008.
Implementing database administration appropriately and effectively in your organization requires careful thought and planning. At a primary level, though, you need to be able to describe what a DBA must be able to do. This article condenses the basic requirements into 17 basic skills that make a successful DBA.
The Database Report: 2Q2008.
The Data Administration Newsletter, July 2008.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the second quarter of 2008, spanning April thru June.
Consider Data Access Auditing to Classify Database Data.
Database Trends and Applications, July 2008.
A detailed classification of which data is being used, how it is being used, and when it is being used is required to align data with appropriate regulations and storage types. This article suggests one method for creating such a classification scheme.
The Rise of Dynamic SQL.
zJournal, June / July 2008.
This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine the factors contributing to the increasing popularity of dynamic SQL in DB2 applications and systems.
The Growing Importance of Metadata.
Database Trends and Applications, June 2008.
Without metadata data cannot be turned into information. But aside from this fact, governmental regulations require the classification of data, which is also impossible without metadata.
On Recovery Service Levels.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Spring 2008.
Well-
The Cost of a Data Breach.
Database Trends and Applications, May 2008.
If you read the It press these days you know that data breaches are quite pervasive. We keep hearing about data being lost, stolen, and nefariously accessed. It is all enough to give a data professional a throbbing headache. But what is the actual cost of these data breaches?
Use Real Time Statistics to Automate Your Database Maintenance.
zJournal, April / May 2008.
This month in zData Perspectives we examine the Real Time Statistics (RTS) and the benefits that can be accrued by using RTS.
The Database Report: 1Q2008.
The Data Administration Newsletter, April 2008.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the first quarter of 2008, spanning January thru March.
Database Data Needs Long-
Database Trends and Applications, April 2008.
Long-
Collecting Histogram Statistics With RUNSTATS.
DB2 Update, March 2008.
This article discusses one of the many new enhancements that have found their way into DB2 9 for z/OS -
An Update on Data Professional's Salaries.
Database Trends and Applications, March 2008.
In this edition of the DBA Corner, I review the recent salary surveys with a particular emphasis on the pay for data-
Much Ado About DB2 Locking.
zJournal, Feb / March 2008.
This month in zData Perspectives we examine the new locking-
Keeping Up With The DBMS.
Database Trends and Applications, February 2008.
One of the more troubling aspects of the DBA job these dayss is keeping up with the latest version of the DBMS. A typical release cycle for DBMS software is 18 to 24 months for major releases with constant bug fixes and maintenance delivered in between major releases. Indeed, keeping DBMS software up-
Compliance Needs Drive Data Access Auditing Requirements.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Winter 2007.
An increasing number of regulations are being passed that require effort to be exerted to better secure and protect the accuracy and privacy of enterprise data. This expanding need for data auditability is the focus of this issue's column.
Data Management Made News in 2007.
Database Trends and Applications, January 2008.
In this month's edition of DBA Corner I take a look back at the machinations within the database market over the past year.
The Database Report: 4Q2007.
The Data Administration Newsletter, January 2008.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Fourth quarter of 2007, spanning October thru December.
The Evolution of Database Security.
zJournal, Dec 07 / Jan 08.
This month in zData Perspectives we examine the many improvements in the security features and functionality available in today's database management systems.
Utility TEMPLATE Switching in DB2 9 for z/OS.
DB2 Update, December 2007.
This article discusses a helpful new DB2 Version 9 feature that can be used with multiple utilities: TEMPLATE switching.
The Most Important Thing is Recoverability.
Database Trends and Applications, December 2007.
If you can't recover your databases after a problem then it doesn’t matter how fast you can access them. So how can anyone deny that recoverability is more important than performance?
Data Quality Starts With Proper Data Type.
Quest Pipelines, December 2007.
Choosing the proper data type and length for each column in each table is the first step to improving data quality. This article outlines the impact of proper data types on database integrity.
Data Access Auditing: A Compliance Requirement.
Database Trends and Applications, November 2007.
One of the more useful techniques to protect your company’s database data is via data access auditing, which is a facility for tracking the use of, and modifications made to, database resources and authority.
New Data Types in DB2 9 for z/OS.
DB2 Update, November 2007.
DB2 9 for z/OS offers five new data types for us to make use of and this articles examines each of them in a little detail.
DB2 Encryption Support Keeps Improving.
zJournal, Oct / Nov 2007.
This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine DB2's encryption capabilities on z/OS and the improvements made to encryption in Version 9.
Tracking Data Access for Compliance.
Group Practice Journal, October 2007.
Increased regulations demand the implementation of policies and procedures to protect sensitive healthcare data. Medical professionals must be ever vigilant in the techniques used to manage and protect the data under their care. And that means companies have to perpetually monitor their systems in order to know who did exactly what, when and how -
The Impact of Data Volume on Operational Databases.
Database Trends and Applications, October 2007.
This month in the DBA Corner we explore the negative impact that ballooning data volumes have on operational database performance and maintenance... and we show how database archiving can be a solution to the problems created with large databases.
The Database Report: 3Q2007.
The Data Administration Newsletter, October 2007.
Another edition of my quarterly column titled "The Database Report." This installment covers news in the DBMS community for the Third quarter of 2007, spanning July thru September 2007.
Electronic Discovery: It's Not Just About e-
FindLaw, September 2007.
Most organizations have policies that focus on e-
Simplified Database Search.
Database Trends and Applications, September 2007.
This month in the DBA Corner we ruminate on methods of enabling an easier-
Regulatory Compliance and Database Archiving.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Summer 2007.
In this issue's column we address the archiving of data from operational databases to support long-
DB2 9 for z/OS Improves LOB Support.
zJournal, Aug / Sept 2007.
In this month's edition of the z/Data Perspectives we look at the many improvements IBM has made to DB2's support for Large OBjects in Version 9.
Database Access Auditing: Who Did What to Which Data When?
DM Direct, August 24, 2007
Tracking who does what to which specific piece of data is important because there are many threats to the security of your data. This article outlines the issues and proposes some guidelines for a database auditing solution.
Financial Institutions' Sensitive Data Requires Careful Archiving.
Houston Business Journal, August 3 -
Many regulations impact the need to retain data for long durations, and this is especially so for data under the care of financial institutions. This article provides guidance on techniques for archiving data to assure regulatory compliance for sensitive financial information.
Data Quality Starts With Proper Data Types.
Database Trends and Applications, August 2007.
This month's DBA Corner column pontificates on the importance of choosing the proper data type and length for each column in each table and how this simple task is the most fundamental integrity aspect of database design for integrity.
Database Access Auditing: Who Did What to Which Data When?
DW Direct, July 10, 2007
Tracking who does what to which specific piece of data is important because there are many threats to the security of your data. This article outlines the issues and proposes some guidelines for a database auditing solution.
The Database Report: 2Q2007.
The Data Administration Newsletter, July 2007.
Another edition of my quarterly column titled "The Database Report." This installment covers news in the DBMS community for the Second quarter of 2007, spanning April thru June 2007.
A Good Book on Physical Database Design.
Database Trends and Applications, July 2007.
This month's DBA Corner column offers up a review of an intriguing new book on physical database design called, appropriately enough, Physical Database Design by Sam Lightstone, Toby Teorey, and Tom Nadeau.
The Next Tipping Point: Regulatory Compliance and Data Management.
zJournal, June / July 2007.
In this month's edition of the zData Perspectives column I attempt to predict the nature of the next tipping point in the world of IT. What is a tipping point and why should you care? You'll have to click on the link above and read the article.
A Forced Tour of Duty.
Database Trends and Applications, June 2007.
This month's DBA Corner column offers a modest proposal for new IT professionals.
Managing DB2 Access Paths.
DB2 Update, June 2007.
This article discusses the importance of adopting a liberal approach to rebinding DB2 application programs in order to benefit from up-
The Impact of e-
Database Trends and Applications, May 2007.
The laws and practices that govern the production of evidence in courts of law are changing, and it will have a significant impact on data management. This month's DBA Corner column discusses why this is so.
If You Ain't 8 You're Late.
zJournal, April / May 2007.
The purpose of my column in this issue of zJournal is to look at the status of the DB2 for z/OS community and to convince you to migrate to V8 if you have not done so already.
DB2 Database Performance Fundamentals.
IDUG Solutions Journal, Spring 2007.
This article offers an introduction to the basic premises and notions behind performance management of relational databases in general, and DB2 in particular.
Database Archiving for Long-
IT Compliance Magazine, Spring 2007.
Governmental regulations are increasing in number and frequently dictate the amount of time organization must retain different categories of data. To be in compliance with the rules organization will need to focus on regularly archiving their database data in an accessible format. This article discusses the high-
The Return of the Repository?
Database Trends and Applications, April 2007.
As regulatory compliance increases and data governance gains prominence will the Repository encounter a resurgence in popularity?
The Database Report: 1Q2007.
The Data Administration Newsletter, April 2007.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the First quarter of 2007, spanning January thru mid-
Data Governance is More Than Regulatory Compliance.
Database Trends and Applications, March 2007.
Data governance has become a code word for preparing your databases for regulatory compliance. But instituting a comprehensive data governance practice involves much more than just compliance.
DB2 9 for z/OS: No V for z.
zJournal, February / March 2007.
The beta program for the next version of DB2 for z/OS began back in June of 2006. So it is high time we took a glimpse at what this latest and greatest version of DB2 has to offer.
Two Good New Year's Resolutions for a DBA.
Database Trends and Applications, February 2007.
If you're a DBA who just can't seem to come up with a good New Year's resolution or two, let me suggest a couple for you...
Efficient SQL Coding Basics.
DB2 Update, February 2007.
Poorly coded SQL and application code can cause performance problems. This article offers guidance on the basics of good SQL programming for DB2 application developers.
DB2 z/OS Index Creation Guidelines. (link no longer active)
Quest Pipelines, February 2007.
A list of recommendations to follow when deciding how to index your mainframe DB2 tables.
Types of DBAs.
Database Trends and Applications, January 2007.
There is not just one simple job "out there" with the title database administrator (or DBA). There are actually many jobs that fall under the larger discipline of database administration and this article documents the most popular DBA roles.
Change Control for DB2 Access Paths. (link no longer active)
Quest Pipelines, January 2007.
This article discusses three SQL tips for DB2 that can be used in certain situations to streamline your code. One tip deals with dates, another with removing extra spaces, and a third with aggregating aggregates.
The Database Report: 4Q2006.
The Data Administration Newsletter, January 2007.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Fourth quarter of 2006, spanning October thru December.
Database Archiving for Long-
zJournal, December / January 2007.
Governmental regulations are increasing in number and frequently dictate the amount of time organization must retain different categories of data. To be in compliance with the rules organization will need to focus on regularly archiving their database data in an accessible format. This article discusses the high-
Harness The Full Power of Your Data.
Teradata Magazine, December 2006.
An introduction to advanced analytics, including an introduction to Teradata's advanced analytics capabilities and some of their customer's activities in this area.
The Two Biggest Database Performance "Things".
Database Trends and Applications, December 2006.
Although the performance of database systems and applications can be impacted by numerous factors, paying close attention to two "things" can minimize database performance problems.
Why Haven’t You Started Using Real Time Statistics?
IDUG Solutions Journal, Winter 2006.
Maintaining efficient DB2-
The Lifecycle of Data.
Database Trends and Applications, November 2006.
Data proceeds through a predictable lifecycle as it advances through applications and business processes. Understanding this lifecycle can help to better prepare organizations for dealing with data governance and regulatory compliance issues as they impact your corporate data.
DB2 9 for z/OS Roars to Life.
DB2 Magazine, Quarter 4, 2006 Vol. 11, Issue 4
A short introductory article covering the highlights of the next version of DB2 for z/OS, including coverage of XML, online schema evolution advances, new query capabilities, security and performance improvements, and features removed from DB2 9.
To Rebind or Not to Rebind: Is That a Question?
zJournal, October / November 2006.
One of the most important contributors to the on-
Database Archiving for Long-
The Data Administration Newsletter, October 2006.
The onslaught of governmental regulations is causing organizations to expand the amount of time they retain data. This requires that database data is archived regularly in an accessible format. Read this article to understand the requirements of database archiving.
The Database Report: 3Q2006.
The Data Administration Newsletter, October 2006.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the third quarter of 2006, spanning July thru September.
Change Control for DB2 Access Paths.
IDUG Solutions Journal, October 2006.
On-
Databases Must be Archived for Long-
Database Trends and Applications, October 2006.
In this month's DBA Corner column we take a look at database archiving and the regulations that are driving its adoption in organizations.
DBA Change Management.
Database Trends and Applications, September 2006.
In this month's DBA Corner column we take a look at the various change management challenges faced by database administrators.
BAR your Enterprise from Data Loss.
Teradata Magazine, September 2006.
An introduction to Teradata's new Backup Archive and Restore (BAR) solution outlining the various backup architectures and how to use BAR to improve Teradata backup and recovery operations.
It's Time for Real Time Stats.
zJournal, August / September 2006.
Although Real Time Statistics (RTS) have been available since just after V7, the feature is not widely implemented. This edition of the z/Data Perspective column discusses the benefits of RTS and urges DB2 shops to use RTS to maintain DB2 statistics “on the fly.”
Planning for Future Capacity.
Database Trends and Applications, August 2006.
This month's edition of the DBA Corner column examines capacity planning issues from a database perspective.
Data Professional's Salaries.
Database Trends and Applications, July 2006.
This month's edition of the DBA Corner column examines data professional's salaries as reported by various surveys and reports.
The Database Report: 2Q2006.
The Data Administration Newsletter, July 2006.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the second quarter of 2006, spanning April thru June.
The Basics of DB2 Buffering.
zJournal, June / July 2006.
Memory usage is one of the most important areas for tuning DB2 subsystem performance. The better memory is allocated to buffers, the better DB2 will perform.
Gaining Knowledge Through Process Mining.
Enterprise Leadership, June 2006.
Process mining is a growing discipline similar to data mining. Data mining is an analytical process using heuristics to explore large sets of data in search of consistent patterns and relationships. Process mining deploys similar tactics using event logs.
A Few SQL Tips and Techniques. (link no longer active)
Quest Pipelines, June 2006.
This article discusses three SQL tips for DB2 that can be used in certain situations to streamline your code. One tip deals with dates, another with removing extra spaces, and a third with aggregating aggregates.
Do Data Security Breaches Require a Data Professional's Oath?
Database Trends and Applications, June 2006.
Data security should be an important aspect of the data professional's job duties. But with the increasing instances of data breaches it is reasonable to question just how important security is -
Supplying Intelligence.
Teradata Magazine, June 2006.
An overview of Teradata's SeeChain supply chain management software that lets users take action to solve supply chain problems before they happen. Co-
The Last Date of the Century.
DB2 Update, May 2006.
A short article detailing how to use SQL in DB2 to retrieve the last date of a given century.
Database Standards and Procedures.
Database Trends and Applications, May 2006.
Even though it has been said that the best thing about standards is that there are so many to choose from, corporate standards and procedures for using database systems are important for ensuring smooth operational applications and systems.
A Few SQL Tips and Techniques.
IDUG Solutions Journal, May 2006.
It is always a good idea to keep your bag of SQL tricks filled with techniques to help you deal with troubling application development problems. This article goes over a few tips that might just help your out of a difficult spot.
Regulatory Compliance and Data Governance.
zJournal, April / May 2006.
In this z/Data Perspectives column we discuss the impact of governmental regulations (such as Sarbanes-
Social Networks: A Whole Different Reality Under the Radar.
Enterprise Leadership, April 2006.
Does your company’s organizational chart accurately depict how things actually work in your company? Perhaps not. There is an underlying social infrastructure that exists in most organizations. It is informal, but functionally powerful. This article explores this phenomenon and the impact it can have on your business.
Data Security and Privacy: Concerns of the DBA?
Database Trends and Applications, April 2006.
One of the biggest growing concerns for data professionals is the treatment of data in terms of security, personal privacy, and the potential for abuse. This installment of the DBA Corner takes a look at these concerns.
The Database Report: 1Q2006.
The Data Administration Newsletter, April 2006.
This first installment of 2006 of "The Database Report" covers the latest breaking news in the DBMS industry for January thru March 2006.
On Data and Database Administration.
Database Trends and Applications, March 2006.
Data and database administration are complementary roles. It is important to know the differences between the roles -
Model-
zJournal, Feb / March 2006.
In this zData Perspectives column we discuss how an integrated solution for modeling can help streamline information exchange and enable organizations to effectively translate disparate requirements in context.
A View Review.
IDUG Solutions Journal, February 2006.
The manner in which views can be utilized to provide the greatest benefit can be an area of disagreement between DB2 professionals. Some analysts promote the liberal creation and usage of views, whereas others preach a more conservative approach. This article examines the issues and gives guidance on proper view usage with DB2.
A Guide to DB2 Locking – (Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3). (link no longer active)
dbazine.com, February 2006.
In the first of a three-
In the second of a three-
In this third installment on locking in DB2 for z/OS, we expand to cover locking in a Data Sharing context, and then offer some basic guidelines for implementing efficient locking in your DB2 systems.
Do The Simple Things First. (link no longer active)
Quest Pipelines, February 2006.
Sometimes we can get too caught up in making things more complex than they really are. By concentrating on the simple things, and making sure we get them done correctly, we can greatly improve the manner in which we administer and use DB2.
Database Design and the Internet.
Database Trends and Applications, February 2006.
When databases are designed for e-
Database Storage Management.
Database Trends and Applications, January 2006.
Storage management can be quite complex, but when you factor in multiple different database platforms on a variety of operating systems, managing storage becomes extremely challenging.
Assuring Data Integrity in DB2. (Part 2)
dbazine.com, January 2006.
In part 1 of this article, we discussed some of the mechanisms DB2 uses to maintain data integrity. Part 2 of this article discusses more of these mechanisms, highlighting check constraints and their guidelines, code constraints, and more.
The Database Report: 4Q2005.
The Data Administration Newsletter, January 2006.
This year-
Top Five DB2 V8 Transition Do’s and Don’ts.
zJournal, Dec 2005 / Jan 2006.
This zData Perspectives column provides guidance on things to avoid and things to plan for as you begin to migrate from DB2 V7 to DB2 V8 on the z/OS platform.
What SQL Can Be Used in a Compound SQL Statement?
SearchDataCenter.com, November 2005
Q+A session for web portal on compound SQL.
Model-
Database Trends and Applications, December 2005.
An integrated solution for modeling can help streamline information exchange and enable organizations to effectively translate disparate requirements in context. With an integrated model-
DBA Staffing Considerations.
SearchDataManagement.com, November 2005.
It can be difficult to determine the optimal number of DBAs required to keep an organization's databases online and operating efficiently; this short article suggests some metrics.
Use DBA Tools to Assure Efficient Data Management.
Database Trends and Applications, November 2005.
Although database administration is required to ensure the efficient and proper design and care of the data in production databases, today’s database systems do not deliver all of the needed functionality required to support large-
SQL Performance Tuning Basics.
zJournal, October / November 2005.
This zData Perspectives column offers some basic SQL tuning guidelines and rules to help guide you along the path toward building efficient DB2 applications.
Simple Things First.
IDUG Solutions Journal, October 2005.
Simplicity is the theme of this installment of The Buffer Pool column. By concentrating on the simple things, and making sure we get them done correctly, we can greatly improve the manner in which we administer DB2.
Database Archiving Solves Many Issues.
Database Trends and Applications, October 2005.
Database archiving solutions can be implemented not only to tackle on-
The Database Report: 3Q2005.
The Data Administration Newsletter, October 2005.
Read "The Database Report" to hear all about the latest news regarding database management systems and the most popular DBMS vendors.
The Log is the Database.
Database Trends and Applications, September 2005.
Database transactions logs are a rich source of information that should not be ignored.
Evaluating DB2 Tool Vendors.
zJournal, August / September 2005.
In this installment of the zData Perspectives column we explore the proper questions to ask -
Assuring Data Integrity in DB2. (Part 1)
dbazine.com, August 2005.
DB2 provides many techniques to automatically enforce and maintain data integrity within your tables. This article describes these techniques and discusses their benefits.
The Aging Mainframer.
Search390, August 2005.
We continue to hear that the mainframe is dead, but is that really so? More important than the actual hardware is the people who manage it. Where will new mainframers come from?
Recommended Additions to the DBA Bookshelf.
Database Trends and Applications, August 2005.
New database books are being published all the time, but which ones are actually worth buying? This month's column examines three recent books that are worth DBA's time and effort to purchase and read.
The Database Report: 2Q2005.
The Data Administration Newsletter, July 2005.
This edition of the quarterly column, "The Database Report," covers the latest news in the DBMS industry including: Oracle's acquisitions, IBM's Viper, and Microsoft TechEd (among other news).
Database Auditing: The DBA Corner.
Database Trends and Applications, July 2005.
Database auditing enables DBAs to track the use of database resources and authority. Auditing has many uses and can be accomplished in different ways. This column examines several way to implement database auditing.
Twenty-
zJournal, June / July 2005.
DB2 has been around for more than two decades now and in this installment of the z/Data Perspectives column we examine how it has grown from its humble beginnings.
Sarbanes-
Database Trends and Applications, June 2005.
The Sarbanes-
Some SQL Tricks for the DB2 Developer.
DB2 Update, June 2005.
This article covers several SQL "tricks" to help out during certain type of development situations.
The Tao of DBA.
Database Trends and Applications, May 2005.
Database administration is a complex job requiring patience and experience. But does it also require a philosophy? Applying Taoist philosophy to database "problems" might just be helpful...
A Short Introduction to Lock Avoidance in DB2 for z/OS. (link no longer active)
dbazine.com, May 2005.
A brief introduction to lock avoidance techniques that can be used for your mainframe DB2 applications.
Changing Table Space Partitioning Specifications.
zJournal, April / May 2005.
In this installment of the z/Data Perspectives column we look at the improvements made to managing partitioned table spaces in DB2 V8.
On VSAM and DB2.
IDUG Solutions Journal, April 2005.
In this installment of The Buffer Pool column we examine the issues involved when planning to migrate from VSAM to DB2.
The Database Report: 1Q2005.
The Data Administration Newsletter, April 2005.
Check in with "The Database Report" to read the latest news regarding database management systems and the most popular DBMS vendors.
Plan for Disasters and Test the Plan Regularly.
Database Trends and Applications, April 2005.
A disaster recovery plan is like insurance – you're glad you have it, but you hope you don't need it. But without a plan you will be unprepared in the event of the unthinkable.
Often Misunderstood, Don't Ignore Nulls.
Database Trends and Applications, March 2005.
Nulls are a necessary evil if you use today's most popular SQL database systems. Failing to understand what they are and how to use them is a sure recipe for disaster.
Planning for IDUG. (link no longer active)
dbazine.com, March 2005.
Guidance on making the most out of a trip to the IDUG North American conference.today's
DB2 Annoyances.
zJournal, February/March 2005.
Annoyances are those little things software does to drive intelligent people crazy. There isn’t a piece of commercial software out there that is not plagued with annoyances and DB2 has its fair share of them. In this article, we examine a few of them.
Database Trends.
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
A look at the trends and issues impacting the database market as of early 2005.
A Database Bookshelf.
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
This short article offers suggestions on database management books that are recommended for every database professional to own.
DBA Certification.
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
Here we examine the benefits and shortcomings of DBA certification.
How Many DBAs?
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
One of the most common problems perplexing DBA groups and managers is how many DBAs are needed to support their environment. This article examines the issues surrounding DBA staffing.
It's Alive! It's Alive!
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
This article discusses the reasons why IBM's mainframe computing platform continues to not only exist, but prosper.
Self-
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
The marketing literature tells us that autonomic computing is finding its way into modern DBMS products. But what is the truth of the matter?
The Data Explosion.
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
This article discusses the issue of phenomenal data growth and its impact on DBAs.
On Becoming a DBA.
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
Some advice and guidance for folks who think they want to become a database administrator.
The Morphing of Database Administration.
SearchOracle.com, February 2005.
Some thoughts on the ever-
Intelligent Automation Can Solve the Complexity Problem.
Database Trends and Applications, February 2005.
Database administration is a complex job. One of the ways to simplify DBA problems is through intelligent automation. By automating some of the tedious day-
The Database Report: 4Q2004.
The Data Administration Newsletter, January 2005.
Check in with "The Database Report" to read the latest news regarding database management systems and the most popular DBMS vendors.
An Introduction to DB2 Indexing.
DBAzine, January 2005.
A short introduction to index design in DB2 for z/OS (adapted from DB2 Developer’s Guide).
Performance Tuning Requirements for Database Applications.
Database Trends and Applications, January 2005.
Database application tuning can be broken down into three components: system tuning, database tuning, and application tuning. This article discusses each component and how all are required to ensure efficiency.
The DB2 Utility Conundrum.
Journal, December 2004/January 2005.
As organizations finish migrating to DB2 Version 7, they have a decision to make regarding DB2 utilities. This article explains the options and examines the reasons behind this utility conundrum.
