 Craig S. Mullins
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| Craig S. Mullins
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Craig
Mullins
Published Articles Index by Year: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older Index by Topic: DB2 | SQL Server | Oracle | DBA | News | Humor | Misc. | Mainframe My Columns: DBA Corner | The Database Report | z/Data Perspectives | The Buffer Pool My
Blog(s):
Perspectives on Database Management |
DB2 for z/OS and Mainframes |
Data
Management Today |
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Follow me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/craigmullins
DB2 for z/OS and Mainframes blog at DB2portal.com
Access "DB2 Developer's Guide" online at Safari
Mainframe Hacking: Fact or Fiction?, Mainframe Watch BelgiumSynthetic Data, WikipediaUsers Cautious on Red Hat's Stake in EnterpriseDB, Pam DerringerEnterpriseDB says open source database saves big bucks, Pam DerringerThe Art of Being a Successful DBA, Chris FootHeading Off The Next Big Breach, Ryan Rhodes Log Buffer #153, David EdwardsLog Buffer #151, David EdwardsIBM Data Champion Program, Susan Visser Log Buffer #150, Sheeri CabralIngres and JBoss integration aimed at database market expansion, by Pam DerringerLog Buffer #145, David Edwards Job Advice for IT Professionals, Michael Corey Log Buffer #144, Paul Logan How to find the first 5 highest salaried employees in each department, TechTarget Log Buffer #140, Dave Edwards What Does a DBA Do?, Michael Corey Log Buffer #139, David Edwards Emerging Technologies: Cool Shades of Big Blue, IBM Database Magazine Log Buffer #134, David Edwards DBA Rules of Thumb - Don't Panic, Michael Corey Log Buffer #131, David Edwards Denormalization, Java Database Best Practices Log Buffer #119, David Edwards NEON Enterprise Software to Host Webinar about Preventing Data Breaches with Guardium for Mainframe, NEON Press Release Web Hosting Provider The Planet Hosts Forum on IT Compliance and Risk Management, Web Hosting News Old, But Still Around, Systems Management News. NEON’s Craig Mullins Named Co-Chair of 100 Year Archive Committee, NESI Press Release Log Buffer #89, Shakir Sadikali Sarbanes-Oxley and the DBA, Certification Magazine Data Management Capability Maturity Model, Whitemarsh Log Buffer #69, David Edward IBM's On Demand Conversation Getting Stale, eWeek Magazine A Year in Blogs, Trevor Eddoll's Mainframe World Blog Log Buffer #63, Craig S. Mullins Addressing the E-Discovery Challenge with Automated Translation, Language Weaver Log Buffer #62, David Edward Getting Your Priorities Right, SSWUG, Stephen Wynkoop Log Buffer #55, Jeremy Schneider Failover Database Reuse Not For All, Government Computer News Archive Strategies for OLTP Servers, Part 3, Xaprb Log Buffer #49, Coskan Gundogar Log Buffer #45, Doug Burns Log Buffer #42, David Edwards VSAM to DB2 Conversions: Expert Advice, Kathryn Marquis Log Buffer #41, David Edwards Log Buffer #40, David Edwards Log Buffer #39, die Seilerwerks Arcati Yearbook 2007, Trevor Eddoll's Mainframe World Blog Log Buffer #31, David Edwards Log Buffer #30, David Edwards Log Buffer #27, Planet PostgreSQL Another opinion about when to do a DB2 bind, Willie Favero's Getting the Most Out of DB2 for z/OS Blog Log Buffer #22, Brian Kelley's Blog Using the SQL CASE Statement, Rhonda Tipton Log Buffer #21, Adam Machanic's SQL Server Blog Spot Log Buffer #20, Lisa Dobson's Oracle Newbies Blog Log Buffer #19, Jay Pipes' MySQL Camp Blog Log Buffer #17, The Pythian Group The Non-Technical Art of Being a Successful DBA - Excelling at Verbal and Written Communications, Chris Foot's Oracle Blog Log Buffer #16, Guy Bowerman's Informix Blog Log Buffer #14, The Pythian Group Log Buffer #13, Technical Notes and Articles of Interest Log Buffer #12, The Data Charmer Log Buffer #5, The Pythian Group Craig Mullins Joins NEON Enterprise Software, Inc., DBTA 5 Minute Briefing NEON Enterprise Software, Inc. Hires Database Management and Administration Expert Craig S. Mullins, TMCnet.com NEON Enterprise Software, Inc. Hires Database Management and Administration Expert Craig S. Mullins, NEON Press Release The Database of Databases, Drew Robb, Government Computer News The Importance of Soft Skills, Chris Foot, dbazine.com SearchDataManagement Expert Answers, 2005-2006
Career
Spotlight: Database Administrator, Allan Hoffman Highly Respected Authority in Database Community Craig Mullins Tapped to Spearhead Embarcadero Technologies Product Strategy Initiatives, BNET Research Center Highly Respected Authority in Database Community Craig Mullins Tapped to Spearhead Embarcadero Technologies Product Strategy Initiatives, Embarcadero Press Release Computer-implemented data replacement graphical user interface system and method, Patent filing On Cloud Nine With Fives Nines, Elizabeth Millard, The Processor Craig Mullins Gives Two Thumbs Up to EMPRESS Embedded Database, Empress Press Release Coming to an Enterprise Near You, DBAzine Podcast
Another Use for Views, Advice for Potential DBAs, Don Burleson
Backward Looking
Forward, DB2 for z/OS Performance Primer, DBAzine white paper DB2 With Craig Mullins, Expert Answer Center
Buttering Up the End User, View from the Top - Part 3, dbazine.com View from the Top - Part 2, dbazine.com View from the Top - Part 1, dbazine.com Web Services, BI Fuel DBA Job Market, searchdatabase.com Report from DAMA + Meta-data Conference, DSS News Date Defends Relational Model, searchdatabase.com DBAs, Developers Keep Alibis Handy, searchdatabase.com Remote DBAs: Not the Next Big Thing, searchdatabase.com
Automation
Alley DB2
Questions from the Experts - Part 3 DB2
Questions from the Experts - Part 2 DB2
Questions from the Experts - Part 1 Where
do you Want to Go Next? Who's
#1? BMC Software Appoints Craig S. Mullins as Director of DB2 Technology Planning, Reinforcing its Commitment to OS/390 Solutions, BMC Press Release
Trends & Insights: Is There Life Beyond Wizards?
SQL Server Magazine A DB2 is a DB2 is a DB2, Software Magazine
Some of Craig's Many Technical Presentations: Considerations for DB2 V8 Transition DB2 Database Design: From Logical to Physical DB2 Performance Tuning Roadmap Managing Data for Long Retention Periods Null and Void? - Dealing with Nulls in DB2 Trends in Database Management Circa 2008
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Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2010
A Quick Look at the Open Source DBMS Market. This month's column offers up a review of the open source landscape for database management systems... which has become more interesting as Oracle continues its acquisitive ways.
Database Adventures in Linux for System z Land. Although the mainframe database landscape has been quite stable for the past two to three decades the advents of Linux for System z may be shaking things up a bit.
The Evaporation of Privacy. An examination of our diminishing expectations of privacy by reviewing little pieces of paper that fall out of our monthly bills and account statements.
You Can't Force Data Quality. In the never-ending quest for quality data, organizations can do much better at verifying the data entered into their customer-facing Web applications. Information Overload? No Such
Thing! This month I tackle the misguided notion of "information overload." you see, I'm of the opinion that you can never have enough information – at least regarding those things you care about
The Database
Report: 4Q2009. The fourth quarter installment of "The Database Report" column covering the on-going Oracle/Sun saga, quarterly earnings announcements, acquisitions during the 4Q2009, and more.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
Craig Mullins' Articles Published in 2009 11 Rules of the Road for DBAs. Sometimes the non-technical aspects of DBA are just as challenging as the technical ones. With that in mind, this month’s column offers some “life rules” to guide DBAs as they attempt to keep their companies databases humming along. A Data-Tinged Look Back at 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.
The Definition of Database Performance.
Collecting Histogram Statistics With RUNSTATS. 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. This month's DBA CORNER deals with the never-ending quest for quality data -- and the many barriers thwarting that quest.
Just the Facts About Mainframe
Specialty Processors. 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. 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. 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-related books in the DBA Corner column. In this month's column I offer short reviews of four new database books.
An Overview of Mainframe Specialty Processors. If you are a mainframer you will have at least heard about specialty processors -- zIIPs and zAAPs --- but perhaps you need more information about what they are, what they do, and why they exist. This article takes you on a brief journey into the world of specialty processors!
The Database
Report: 3Q2009. The third quarter installment of "The Database Report" column covering the on-going Oracle/Sun saga, quarterly earnings announcements, acquisitions during the 3rd quarter, and more. Specialty
Processors on the Mainframe. 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-depth yet. With that in mind, this article takes a brief journey into the world of specialty processors. DISPLAY
Your Way Out of DB2 Problems. 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. Managing an ever-increasing mountain of data is not a simple task in the best of times, but doing so while combining formerly separate entities during an economic slowdown can be a monumental challenge.
An Overview of Mainframe Specialty Processors. 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. 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-connectivity?
The Database
Report: 2Q2009. This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Sexond quarter of 2009, spanning April thru June -- and includes coverage of Oracle's acquisition of Sun Microsystems. Are DBAs Really DBAs Today? 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--but is this a good thing? Advice for Job-Seeking Data
Professionals. This month's column offers up some advice and guidance to job-seeking DBAs, data architects, and database programmers. Given the state of the economy circa mid-2009, I this should be a timely topic!
Thoughts on Data Quality. This short article discusses a thorny problem -- data quality -- experienced by most organizations. DB2 System Configuration and
Performance. 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. This month's column offers a checklist of questions to help you evaluate DBA tools and vendors.
The Database
Report: 1Q2009. 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. 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. Managing an ever-increasing mountain of data is not a simple task in the best of times, but doing so while combining formerly separate entities during an economic slowdown can be a monumental challenge. Dynamic SQL On The Rise. 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. 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. Getting a handle on all of the data in your post-acquisition organization requires time and effort. But it need not be fraught with risk. Database
Statistics and Optimization. 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. Getting a handle on all of the data in your post-acquisition organization requires time and effort. But it need not be fraught with risk. Database
Fundamentals. A back to basics review of the fundamentals of data, databases, and database management concepts, issues, and terminology.
This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Fourth quarter of 2008, spanning October thru December.
DBA
Proverbs. 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. 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.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2008 A Data-Tinged Look Back at 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. Data is expanding rapidly in today's corporations, but we are also expanding our personal use of data.
Things You've Probably Neglected. 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.
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.
Reoptimizing
SQL. This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine ways to re-optimize dynamic and static SQL, as well as the potential benefits of doing so.
Safeguarding Financial Data
from the Foxes in the Henhouse. 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. This article discusses best practices methodologies for assuring optimal performance by rigorously controlling changes to your DB2 plans and packages.
The Database
Report: 3Q2008. 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. 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. 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". 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Well-planned recovery procedures should be able to assure a complete recovery of enterprise-critical data within a pre-defined time window that provides for minimum disruption of the business. However, within complex environments, it is nearly impossible to perform recovery tests without disrupting the production system. With these issues in mind, this article examines the risk management of business availability, especially focusing on database health.
The Cost of
a Data Breach. 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. This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine the Real Time Statistics (RTS) and the benefits that can be accrued by using RTS.
The Database
Report: 1Q2008. This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the first quarter of 2008, spanning January thru March. Database Data Needs Long-Term
(100 Year) Archiving Solution. Long-term data retention is a reality. And in this edition of the DBA Corner column I review a recent survey on archiving and relate the findings to the retention and preservation of database for long durations. Collecting
Histogram Statistics With RUNSTATS. This article discusses one of the many new enhancements that have found their way into DB2 9 for z/OS -- the ability to gather histogram statistics with the IBM RUNSTATS utility.
An Update on Data Professional's Salaries. In this edition of the DBA Corner, I review the recent salary surveys with a particular emphasis on the pay for data-related jobs.
Much Ado About DB2 Locking. This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine the new locking-related features of DB2 for z/OS.
Keeping Up With The DBMS. 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-to-date can become a full-time job. Compliance Needs Drive Data Access Auditing
Requirements. 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. 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. 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. This month in z/Data Perspectives we examine the many improvements in the security features and functionality available in today's database management systems.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2007
Utility TEMPLATE Switching in DB2 9 for z/OS. 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. 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. 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. 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 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. 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. 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 - to their data. The Impact of Data Volume on
Operational Databases. 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. 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-Mail. Most organizations have policies that focus on e-mail retention because of the highly publicized e-discovery cases that relied on information discovered in e-mail communications. But it is critical that retention policies not stop there. The transactional data stored in database systems also must be readily accessible in the event of an e-discovery request.
Simplified Database Search. This month in the DBA Corner we ruminate on methods of enabling an easier-to-use search capability for production databases much like the ubiquitous search capability available on the web.
The
Buffer Pool:
Regulatory Compliance and
Database
Archiving. In this issue's column we address the archiving of data from operational databases to support long-term data retention regulations.
DB2 9 for z/OS Improves LOB Support. 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? 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. 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. 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? 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. 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. 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. 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. This month's DBA Corner column offers a modest proposal for new IT professionals. Managing DB2 Access
Paths. This article discusses the importance of adopting a liberal approach to rebinding DB2 application programs in order to benefit from up-to-date statistics and optimization techniques.
The Impact of e-Discovery on Data Management. 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. 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.
The
Buffer Pool:
DB2 Database Performance Fundamentals. 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-Term Data Retention. 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-level requirements for database archiving. The Return of the Repository? As regulatory compliance increases and data governance gains prominence will the Repository encounter a resurgence in popularity?
The Database
Report: 1Q2007. This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the First quarter of 2007, spanning January thru mid-March. Data Governance is More Than
Regulatory Compliance. 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. 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. 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. 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. A list of recommendations to follow when deciding how to index your mainframe DB2 tables. Types of DBAs. 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. 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. This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the Fourth quarter of 2006, spanning October thru December. Database
Archiving for Long-Term Data Retention. 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-level requirements for database archiving. Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2006
Harness The
Full Power of Your Data. 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". 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.
The
Buffer Pool:
Why Haven’t
You Started Using Real Time Statistics? Maintaining efficient DB2-based systems requires analyzing your database objects. But how can you ensure that you are getting up-to-date statistics on your objects? Well, one way is to use Real-Time Stats (RTS). In this edition of The Buffer Pool we will examine RTS and how they can help optimize your DB2 administration tasks. The Lifecycle of Data. 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. 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? One of the most important contributors to the on-going efficiency and health of your DB2 environment is proper management of DB2 access path changes. In this article we discuss how a thorough REBIND management process is a requirement for healthy DB2 applications. Database
Archiving for Long-Term Data Retention. 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. This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the third quarter of 2006, spanning July thru September.
The
Buffer Pool: Change Control for DB2 Access Paths. On-going analysis and management of DB2 access paths is important to ensure DB2 application performance. Yet many organizations fail to keep access paths up-to-date. In this edition of The Buffer Pool column we examine access path change management and look at some methods for introducing a better change control discipline for DB2 access paths. Databases Must be
Archived for Long-Term Data Retention. 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. 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. 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. z/Data Perspectives: It's Time
for Real Time Stats. 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. This month's edition of the DBA Corner column examines capacity planning issues from a database perspective. Data
Professional's Salaries. 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. This installment of "The Database Report" covers DBMS industry new for the second quarter of 2006, spanning April thru June. z/Data Perspectives: The Basics
of DB2 Buffering. 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. Process miningit 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. 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? 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 -- or isn't.
Supplying
Intelligence. An overview of Teradata's SeeChain supply chain management software that lets users take action to solve supply chain problems before they happen. Co-written with Rick Lower, solutions manager in Teradata’s demand and supply chain marketing department The Last Date of the Century. A short article detailing how to use SQL in DB2 to retrieve the last date of a given century. Database Standards and
Procedures. 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.
The
Buffer Pool: A Few SQL Tips and Techniques. 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.
z/Data Perspectives: Regulatory
Compliance and Data Governance. In this z/Data Perspectives column we discuss the impact of governmental regulations (such as Sarbanes-Oxley) on data and database management policy.
Social Networks: A
Whole Different Reality Under the Radar. 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? 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.
A Guide to DB2
Locking – Part 3. In this third and final installment of a three-part series (adapted from my book, DB2 Developer’s Guide) 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.
The Database
Report: 1Q2006. This first installment of 2006 of "The Database Report" covers the latest breaking news in the DBMS industry for January thru March 2006.
A Guide to DB2
Locking – Part 2. In the second of a three-part series (adapted from my book, DB2 Developer’s Guide) on locking in DB2 for z/OS, we extend our understanding of DB2 locking by examining the types of locks, claims and drains, and lock avoidance. On Data and Database
Administration. Data and database administration are complementary roles. It is important to know the differences between the roles - and to remember that both are required in order to effectively manage business data.
Model-Based Development and Management. In this z/Data 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.
The
Buffer Pool: A View Review. 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. In the first of a three-part series (adapted from my book, DB2 Developer’s Guide) on locking in DB2 for z/OS, we examine the high-level basics of DB2 locking, including the reason a DBMS needs a locking mechanism, locks versus latches, the BIND parameters that impact locking, and the impact on your programs.
Do
The Simple Things First. 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. When databases are designed for e-business applications the tendency is for the DBA to get swept up in the dynamics of web-based design and development. This can be a dangerous mistake when designing databases. This column examines why this is so. Database
Storage Management. 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) 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. This year-end installment of "The Database Report" covers the latest breaking news in the DBMS industry for the fourth quarter of 2005.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2005 Top Five DB2 V8 Transition Do’s
and Don’ts. This z/Data 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.
Model-Based Development and Management. An integrated solution for modeling can help streamline information exchange and enable organizations to effectively translate disparate requirements in context. With an integrated model-based approach, data and metadata can be more smoothly and accurately passed across functional boundaries.
DBA Staffing Considerations. 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. 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-scale development. In this column we briefly review the many types of data management tools that are available to enhance the functionality of your DBMS. SQL Performance Tuning Basics. This z/Data Perspectives column offers some basic SQL tuning guidelines and rules to help guide you along the path toward building efficient DB2 applications.
The
Buffer Pool: Simple Things First. 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 archiving solutions can be implemented not only to tackle on-going database and data growth, but also to help improve performance, increase availability and lower costs.
The Database
Report: 3Q2005. 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 transactions logs are a rich source of information that should not be ignored. Evaluating DB2 Tool Vendors. In this installment of the z/Data Perspectives column we explore the proper questions to ask -- and have answered -- when you are shopping for DB2 tools.
Assuring Data Integrity in DB2. (Part 1) 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. 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. 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. 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 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-Two Years of DB2. 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-Oxley Requires Rigor in Database Administration: The DBA Corner. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act is the most significant government legislation affecting accounting and auditing in more than 70 years. If you work for a public company, you’ve most likely felt the impact of this legislation. But what will be the impact of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act on DBAs? Some SQL Tricks for the DB2
Developer. This article covers several SQL "tricks" to help out during certain type of development situations. The Tao of DBA:
The DBA Corner.
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. A brief introduction to lock avoidance techniques that can be used for your mainframe DB2 applications. Changing Table Space
Partitioning Specifications. In this installment of the z/Data Perspectives column we look at the improvements made to managing partitioned table spaces in DB2 V8.
The
Buffer Pool: On VSAM and DB2. 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. 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: The DBA Corner.
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: The DBA Corner.
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. DB2 Annoyances.
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. A look at the trends and issues impacting the database market as of early 2005.
A Database Bookshelf. This short article offers suggestions on database management books that are recommended for every database professional to own.
DBA Certification. Here we examine the benefits and shortcomings of DBA certification.
How Many DBAs? 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! This article discusses the reasons why IBM's mainframe computing platform continues to not only exist, but prosper.
Open Source Database Systems. Open source is a rolling freight train that cannot be stopped, and the DBMS is caught up in the frenzy. This article examines the open source trend as it impacts database systems.
Self-Managing Database Systems.
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. This article discusses the issue of phenomenal data growth and its impact on DBAs.
On Becoming a DBA. Some advice and guidance for folks' who think they want to become a database administrator.
The Morphing of Database Administration.
Some thoughts on the ever-changing, ever-expanding role of the DBA. Intelligent Automation Can Solve
the Complexity Problem: The DBA Corner.
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-to-day tasks of database administration, we can simplify our complex environment and reduce manual errors.
The Database
Report: 4Q2004. Check in with "The Database Report" to read the latest news regarding database management systems and the most popular DBMS vendors. Performance Tuning Requirements
for Database Applications: The DBA Corner.
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. 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. Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2004 The Buffer Pool: Using Nulls in DB2.
This installment of The Buffer Pool discusses the thorny topic of nulls. What is Knowledge and
Can it be Managed?: The DBA Corner.
A look at the controversial and confusing term "knowledge management."
High Speed Transaction Recovery. As the demand for 24x7 processing increases, DBAs are looking for ways to perform database maintenance tasks with minimal or not outages. This article discusses high availability database recovery techniques to meet this demand head on. Ensuring Data Integrity is a Tricky Business:
The DBA Corner.
The term "data integrity" can mean many different things. This installation of the DBA Corner column seeks to clarify these different meanings.
Facilitating Efficient Database Management. This article provides an overview of the various types of tools and solutions available to improve database administration and management tasks. The Top Ten Features of DB2 for
z/OS V8. This installment of the z/Data Perspectives column looks at the top ten new features of DB2 Version 8. Of course, this is just my opinion, but I think I can back it up! Check it out.
Three Trusty Rules for DB2 Triggers. This short piece summarizes a response to a question on when to use triggers into three basic rules. The Five Nines
of Database Availability:
The DBA Corner.
How much availability is enough? As we push to provide continuous uptime we need to pause to define what is reasonable — and perhaps more importantly, what is achievable.
The Database
Report: 3Q2004. Check in with "The Database Report" to read the latest news regarding database management systems and the most popular DBMS vendors.
A View Review. One of the most fertile grounds for disagreement between DB2 professionals is the appropriate usage of views. But when views are properly implemented and managed, they can be useful tools. This article explores the many aspects and uses of views that make them essential for DB2 development. Using Dynamic SQL for Maximum Flexibility.
This article discusses the benefits of dynamic SQL along with coverage of each of the different types of dynamic SQL that can be used with DB2 for z/OS.
An Irregular Sorting
Requirement. This article takes a look at a novel way of solving non-standard sorting requirements in DB2 using only functions and SQL.
Programmers Use Excuses, Too:
The DBA Corner.
Last month we reviewed DBA excuses, but programmers are notorious for making excuses too. This month we examine the excuses programmers make as they work with relational database systems.
What is Large?
What do people really mean when they talk about large databases? The term is nebulous and ever changing. This article examines just what is meant by the term large database today.
The Buffer Pool:
The
Hitchhiker's Guide to DB2. DB2 is complex and can be intimidating to learn and master. There are a lot of details that need to be understood and difficulties can arise for any number of reasons. This article offers a short guide for DB2 developers showing how to find information and clear up some confusing issues.
Taming DB2
Performance Issues. This article offers a high-level discussion of DB2 performance; along with how BMC SmartDBA solutions for monitoring, tuning, and managing DB2 can help to improve database performance. Reviewing the
Top DBA Excuses and How to Overcome Them:
The DBA Corner.
The number one all-time DBA excuse can be broken down into two words - "it depends." DBAs are notorious for answering every question with those same two words -- and they are right, it does "depend," but that answer isn't very helpful. Read this month's installment of The DBA Corner to learn about other DBA excuses - and how to overcome them!
The
Database Report: 2Q2004. In this regular TDAN column you can read all about the latest news and issues going on in the world of database management systems. This installment is highlighted by latest on Oracle's attempt to acquire Peoplesoft, news from the analysts on DBMS market share, and technical and financial news on IBM and Oracle. How Secure Are
Your Databases?:
The DBA Corner.
Security is on everyone’s mind these days as we are constantly bombarded with images on the daily news that underscore just how important security is. But have you really thought about how secure your corporate databases are? This installment of The DBA Corner examines the many aspects of securing corporate databases.
IMS is Alive and Kicking. While hierarchical database systems have been surpassed in the marketplace by relational and SQL products like DB2, IMS can brag about its long and proud legacy that continues on today. This installment of my zData Perspectives column examines the current state and health of IBM's IMS.
DB2 Behind the Scenes.
Ever wondered what is actually going on behind the scenes in DB2? When you create a table, how does DB2 create and store it? When you issue an SQL statement, what happens to it so that it returns your answer? Where are these application plans kept? What is going on “under the covers”? This article examines the answers to questions like these. So You Want to Become a DBA?:
The DBA Corner. One of the most common questions I am asked is “How can I become a DBA?” The question is actually not as simple as it seems and there are many different aspects to the question. But this article answers the question for most IT folks. Using Real Time Statistics (RTS). This article discusses the Real Time Stats (RTS) feature of DB2 for z/OS including definitions of the RTS columns and suggested queries to use for DB2 performance management and administration.
DB2 Advice Your Daddy Didn't Give You. A collection of DB2 questions and answers from my gig as a contributor to the search390 ATE section.
The Buffer Pool: Recursion in DB2 V8, V8, V8... In this installment of The Buffer Pool column we examine the recursive SQL capabilities of DB2 for z/OS Version 8. Recursion is demonstrated by means of a simple hierarchy and the SQL needed to walk the hierarchy. Why Outsourcing
the DBA is Not an Option: The DBA Corner.
Ever thought about outsourcing your DBA group? This article gives you several reasons why this might not be the best idea in the world. Materialized Query Tables and the Death of Denormalization.zJournal, April/May 2004. Ever since the first relational DBMS products were introduced, DBAs have fought the battle of normalization versus denormalization. This installment of my zData Perspectives column examines MQTs and explains why denormalization may be on the brink of extinction.
Database
Change Management & Schema Evolution in DB2 for z/OS Version 8.
When building DB2 database applications, we create the database objects and then we build the application programs to access the DB2 data. When complete, everything is moved into production and we all live happily ever after, right? Well, eventually we will need to change the database to meet changing business needs. And then what? This article discusses the subject of database change management with particular emphasis given to online schema evolution.
The Engine of Intelligence.
This article examines the prospects of achieving optimal data warehouse performance in light of diminishing data latency.
The
Database Report: 1Q2004. In this regular TDAN column you can read up on the latest about the attempted Peoplesoft acquisition by Oracle, an update on IBM's Stinger and Microsoft's Yukon, as well as various other database news of interest. Make the Most of Your
DBA Reporting Structure: The DBA Corner.
Different companies take different approaches to the DBA reporting structure, but a few reporting hierarchies are common. Although there is no one correct answer, some reporting structures work better than others... and this article examines why. A Look at the Modes of DB2 V8.zJournal, February/March 2003. This installment of zData Perspectives examines the three operational modes of DB2 Version 8 and how they impact migration and functionality of your DB2 subsystems. Will Vendors Automate
the DBA Out of Business?: The DBA Corner.
With all the talk of autonomic computing and self-managing database systems some folks think that DBAs are on the fast path to extinction. But there are many reasons why DBAs are going to be needed for a long time. This article examines these reasons.
An
Introduction to DB2 Indexing.
Learn the basics of DB2 for z/OS indexing in this introductory article. Includes discussion of up-to-date Version 8 information on indexes such as changes to partitioning, DPSIs, and non-padded indexes.
DB2 or
VSAM?
This short article provides a synopsis of the advantage of DB2 over VSAM and other flat file approaches. It can be used to reinforce concepts you already know or to educate those who ask that age-old question "Why VSAM shouldn’t be used instead of DB2?" Database Applications
Require Multiple Design Reviews: The DBA Corner.
All aspects of the database and application code must be reviewed for efficiency, effectiveness, and accuracy. If done correctly, design reviews are conducted at various times during the application lifecycle. Sequence Objects and Identity Columns.DB2 Update, February 2004. This article discusses two methods available for generating sequential values for a DB2 column: identity columns (available as of V6) and sequence objects (available as of V8). The Death of
Denormalization: The DBA Corner.
Ever since the first relational DBMS products were introduced, DBAs have fought the battle of normalization versus denormalization. This installment of The DBA Corner column explains why denormalization is on the brink of extinction. New
Year's Resolutions for a DBA. Another new year is upon us and everyone is making New Year’s resolutions that they probably will not keep. In fact, by the time you get to read this, many of you will have already broken your New Year’s resolutions. That’s okay; if you’re a DBA, this article has some suggested resolutions for you! The
Database Report: 4Q2003. This installment of my regular column for TDAN covers the news in the DBMS software marketplace. In this edition I focus mostly on Oracle, but cover news regarding IBM DB2 and Microsoft SQL Server as well.
zData
Perspectives: Sequence Objects and Identity Columns.
Identity columns and sequence objects make designing DB2 database and applications easier than ever before. This installment of the z/Data perspective column compares and contrasts the functionality of these two DB2 features.
DBA Staffing Considerations. Determining how many DBAs are needed, who reports to whom, and where the DBA function fits best can be a very challenging hurdle for an IT organization. This article helps to clarify the issues.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2003
Get Your Business Where it Needs to Go. The right information infrastructure can support a company all the way to the top or hinder its rise. IBM’s offerings combine rock-solid performance with the flexibility to handle what’s around the corner. Business Eye for the
DBA Guy: The DBA Corner.
Although most DBAs are easily engrossed by technology, knowledge of the business purposes served by technology is increasingly important. This installment of The DBA Corner column helps to explain why. Why
Data Still Matters. Many technologies and marketers throughout the years have claimed that data has become irrelevant and that some “new and improved” technology, technique, or ideology will replace data as the center of IT and data processing. But it has yet to happen, and it never will happen, either! An
Introduction to Database Design: From Logical to Physical.
A proper database design cannot be thrown together quickly by novices. What is required is a practiced and formal approach to gathering data requirements and modeling data. This article provides a quick introduction to the concepts of logical modeling database design.
The Buffer Pool: Know Your Isolation Levels.
In this installment of The Buffer Pool column we examine the various options for setting the isolation level in DB2 programs and the implications of each. Nuggets
of Data Rambling Through my Mind: The DBA Corner.
The DBA Corner column is an exhaust pipe for the random database-related thoughts that build up in my head over time. You can think of this particular installment of the column as sort of like Andy Rooney meets IT. zData
Perspectives: DB2 V8 Online Schema Evolution.
Making changes to database structures can be tedious and error-prone, unless you are using a software tool to manage the process. DB2 V8, though, introduces online schema evolution so now, in some cases, you can make changes using a simple ALTER to modify specific characteristics of a DB2 object. Measuring DBA
Effectiveness. Measuring the performance of IT professionals can be a difficult proposition. It can be particularly thorny when trying to measure the effectiveness of DBAs. Round-the-Clock
Data Availability is Elusive but Expected: The DBA Corner.
Business requirements are increasingly demanding downtime be diminished. This causes DBAs to scramble to address these needs. This piece looks at the increasing desire for 24x7 availability and the problems it can cause. The
Database Report: 3Q2003. Another installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses on Oracle's hostile acquisition bid for PeopleSoft, the announcement of Oracle 10g, as well as a look at news from IBM, Microsoft, and Sybase.
Q&A:
Tips for Making Data Warehouses Manageable.
In this interview conducted by TechTarget, Craig discusses current issues in data warehouse administration and management. Required
Reading from the DBA's Bookshelf: The DBA Corner.
To be a successful DBA you will need to keep up-to-date on the latest skills - and reading is a great way to do that. This short piece provides advice on some good books for DBAs to acquire and read to hone their database and other related skills.
An
Overview of DB2 for z/OS Version 8.
Although V8 has been out for several months now on Linux, Unix, and Windows platforms, it was just recently announced in January 2003 for mainframe platforms. There is a reason for this — DB2 for z/OS Version 8 is a huge and complex beast. This article will provide you with an overview of the major features and functions of DB2 for z/OS V8. zData
Perspectives: DB2
V7 B4 V8.
There has been a lot of excitement lately about the next version of DB2, V8, but in this installment of zData Perspectives column we examine several DB2 V7 features that can be implemented today, before V8 arrives.
The Buffer Pool: Choose the Proper Data Type.
In this third installment of my regular column that looks into misunderstood DB2 functionality we discuss the issue of using proper DB2 data types. How
to Curb the Curmudgeon in the Corner: The DBA Corner.
DBAs are frequently thought of as crusty curmudgeons with vast technical knowledge, but limited people skills. This month's column examines this phenomenon and offers guidance on how best to handle a curmudgeonly DBA. The
Database Report: 2Q2003. Another installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses on Oracle's hostile acquisition bid for PeopleSoft, Yukon delays, revised market share numbers, as well as our regular look at database software revenue figures for the major players.
Development and Production DBA Skills: The DBA Corner.
DBAs need different skills when operating in a development versus production capacity. Both, though, are critical for successful database processing. This month's column examines and compares the different disciplines required for each type of DBA. No Black Boxes.DB2 Update, July 2003. 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--but is this a good thing? zData
Perspectives: DB2
and the Old Dipsy Doo.
The third installment of the bi-monthly zData Perspectives column covers the new DB2 V8 feature - Data Partitioned Secondary Indexes.
Denormalization
of DB2 Tables. A short introduction to the various denormalization options available when designing physical DB2 databases. A
DBMS Architecture by Any Other Name Is Still Confusing: The DBA Corner.
As the DBMS vendors slice and dice their packaging into more and confusing editions and models life gets more confusing for DBAs. This month's column examines the many different DBMS packaging and architectural options for DB2 as an example of how confusing things have become.
Large
Objects and DB2.
This article looks at mainframe DB2's ability to enable the storage and management of complex data types using large objects (LOBs). What
is a DBA? - Part 6.
The sixth and final installment in this series discusses newer technologies that rely on database administration — at least somewhat — to be effectively implemented: database-coupled application logic, Internet-enabled e-business development, and hand-held computing.
Basic
DB2 Buffering and Memory Guidelines.
One of the most important areas for tuning DB2 subsystem performance is memory usage. This tip offers some basic guidance for setting up and tuning DB2 memory usage.
The Buffer Pool: Dynamic Buffer Changes.
This column further investigated commonly misunderstood DB2 functionality – concentrating on dynamic buffer changes and parallel access and partitioning.
Follow the DBA Rules of Thumb for an Easier Life: The DBA Corner.
This month we discuss some basic rules of thumb for DBAs to follow to make their jobs —and lives —easier. zData
Perspectives: DB2—Versions,
Service and Such.
Keeping up-to-date with the latest and greatest DB2 versions and functionality can be a time-consuming task. The second installment of this new column offers up the state of mainframe DB2 versions, releases, and support. DB2
Utilities Through the Looking Glass.
To pay for IBM's DB2 utility functionality or buy third-party products — that is (one of) the questions ... SQL
Server Transaction Log Guidelines. The transaction log is a fundamental component of Microsoft SQL Server. All changes to data in the database are recorded in the transaction log. This article provides a basic introduction to the way in which SQL Server implements and uses transaction logs.
Complexity
Complicates Database Upgrades & Migrations: The DBA Corner.
This month we continue our focus on the increasing complexity of DBMS software with particular attention paid to the task of DBMS upgrades and migrations. What
is a DBA? - Part 5.
The fifth installment in this series discusses how to handle the difficulty of managing multiple DBMSs in a multiplatform environment -- that is, heterogeneous database administration. The
Database Report: 1Q2003. Another installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses on Oracle's revenues, V8 of mainframe DB2, and the Microsoft SQL Server Slammer worm. DBAs!
You Should Fear XML!
A lot has been written about XML in the few years. It is one of the most hyped, and least exciting new technologies in years. XML ain’t all that groundbreaking and it is dangerous to the health of your databases! DB2
Table Space Options, Part 2. Second part of article discussing DB2 for OS/390 table spaces. DB2
Table Space Options, Part 1. When designing DB2 databases, DBAs can choose from three types of table spaces, each one useful in different circumstances. This article examines each table space type and your options for deploying DB2 table spaces. First of two parts. dbazine.com, March 2003.
What does that message mean? Is there more information than the terse pseudo-sentence that sometimes accompanies the message? How can I interpret this string of characters and numbers? Here's information on what you'll need to know about error messages to be an effective DBA or SQL developer. What
is a DBA? - Part 4. The fourth installment in this series discusses the different types of DBAs - from application DBA to data modeler to database architect and more.
Dealing with
DBMS Complexity: The DBA Corner. This installment of The DBA Corner focuses on the rising complexity of Database Management Systems and how that impacts DBAs. zData
Perspectives: An Introduction to DB2 for z/OS V8. This article provides a very quick introduction to the feature functionality highlights of the next version of DB2 for z/OS -- Version 8. Apps
are Temporary, But Data is Forever. An interview of Craig S. Mullins, conducted by Tony Shaw, which focuses on the changing role of DBAs, problems in database application development, solutions for the data explosion and the future of DBMS technology. What
is a DBA? - Part 3. The third installment in this series offers a quick overview of common DBA tasks.
DBAs Do Storage
Management: The DBA Corner. This installment of The DBA Corner focuses on how DBAs need to understand storage technology and sometimes take on the role of Storage Administrator in addition to Database Administrator.
Eight Breakthroughs That Changed DB2 Forever. As DB2 celebrates its 20th anniversary, I look back over its history and discuss the features and functions that helped DB2 become the world-class DBMS it is today. Indeed, IBM has built DB2 into a multipurpose DBMS that can scale the transaction processing walls and analyze the business intelligence needs of any large organization. This article presents my chronological list of the technology breakthroughs that have had the biggest impact on DB2's success. Tuning
DB2 Access Paths. Poorly coded SQL and application code can cause performance problems. This article explains the basics of access paths and join methods, and then shows you how tools such as Explain to monitor and tune your SQL performance. It is intended to give an overview of DB2 access paths and SQL tuning, particularly for, but not limited to, those who are using Borland Kylix and Delphi RAD tools.An
Introduction to DB2 Table Spaces. This article takes a look at the three different types of DB2 table spaces: simple, segmented, and partitioned. It covers the pros and cons of using each type. Guidance is given as to the circumstances when it is advisable to use each type. What
is a DBA? - Part 2. The second installment in this series examining
the roles and responsibilities of the database administrator discusses
the roles of the DA, DBA, and SA including how they overlap, how they
differ, and how they complement each other.
Charting the
Evolution from DBA to e-DBA: The DBA Corner. This installment of The DBA Corner focuses on the changes in roles and responsibilities of the DBA as applications become Internet-enabled. The
Database Report: 4Q2002. Another installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses primarily on Oracle and Microsoft. A DB2 for z/OS Performance Road Map.DB2 Update, January 2003. A database application, at its core, requires three components in order to operate: the system, the database and the application. To deliver performance, the DBA must be able to monitor and tune each of these components. This article provides a performance road map to mainframe DB2 based on these three components.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older |
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Craig Mullins: Articles Published in
2002
Using DB2 in Application Programs. This excerpt from my book, DB2 Developer's Guide, focuses on building DB2 application programs.
The Automated Future: Take 2. DB2 Magazine conducted this interview with Craig to get his views on the future of DB2 database administration in light of the recent IBM promotion of self-managing databases.
The DBA and Application Design: The DBA Corner Many organizations erroneously assume that the DBA should not be involved in application design. But in an efficient organization the DBA will promote the concept of designing applications with an understanding of the database at the forefront. The uninformed approach database application development with no proactive performance engineering – the assumption being that any performance problems can be resolved after development by the DBA. But it may be impossible to tune an improperly designed application program without rewriting it. With proper care, appropriate procedures, and DBA involvement, database applications can be written correctly from the onset. Using Java
With DB2, Part
1 Part
2. DB2 Everyplace: A Mobile DB2. IBM offers a version of DB2 that is small enough to run on handheld devices called DB2 Everyplace. DB2 Everyplace enables the mobile work force to unplug—but still tune in. This article discusses the features and functionality of DB2 Everyplace.
The Buffer Pool: Clarifying Some Common
Misconceptions. There are some aspects of DB2 that are commonly misunderstood – not by everyone, of course – but by enough of us that it warrants some investigation and clarification. This article takes a look at several of the most common DB2 misunderstandings and tries to shed some light on them. DB2 and the Procedural DBA, Part
1 Part
2. As DB2 applications mature, more application code is being stored in the database in the form of stored procedures, triggers, and user-defined functions. A proper methodology for handling these server code objects must be established to effectively administer application code that is stored in the database. This article discusses these new code-based objects from a DB2 for OS/390 perspective and suggests a useful re-definition of the role of a DBA in this changing environment. Data Modeling
Concepts Every DBA Should Know: The DBA Corner Handling performance problems is an enterprise-wide endeavor; however, the task of enterprise performance management frequently becomes the job of the DBA group. Let's face it, many performance problems are first blamed on the DBMS. This article examines the topic of database performance. eDBA:
Database Disaster Planning and the eDBA. The eleventh installment of the eDBA series examines the ever-problematic topic of contingency planning and how to manage database disaster recovery. What
is a DBA? - Part 1. The first installment in a series that examines
the roles and responsibilities of the database administrator.
Optimizing
database performance, part 3: Compression, page size, and more. Part 3 of a three part series on optimizing database performance. This article is excerpted from Craig Mullins' new book Database administration: The complete guide to practices and procedures. The first and second parts of this series are also available.
Optimizing
database performance, part 2: Denormalization and clustering. Part 2 of a three part series on optimizing database performance. This article is excerpted from Craig Mullins' new book Database administration: The complete guide to practices and procedures. The first and third parts of this series are also available.
Optimizing
database performance, part 1: Partitioning and indexing. Part 1 of a three part series on optimizing database performance. This article is excerpted from Craig Mullins' new book Database administration: The complete guide to practices and procedures. The second and third parts of this series are also available. Coding
DB2 SQL for Performance: The Basics. Poorly coded SQL and application code can cause performance problems. This article is intended to give the basics of good SQL programming to application developers, particularly for, but not limited to, those who are using Borland Kylix and Delphi RAD tools. The
Database Report: 3Q2002. Another installment of the regular TDAN column covering the activities of the major DBMS players in the market. This edition focuses on Oracle and IBM's introduction of DB2 Version 8. Q&As
on DB2 Dates. The ability to store dates as a native DB2 data type is a great advantage. But proper usage of dates in DB2 is not universally understood. This article sheds some light on the topic in the form a questions and answers. Optimize Your
Database Performance: The DBA Corner Handling performance problems is an enterprise-wide endeavor; however, the task of enterprise performance management frequently becomes the job of the DBA group. Let's face it, many performance problems are first blamed on the DBMS. This article examines the topic of database performance. Getting
Down to Data Basics. Some daring young enterprises embark on Web-enabled database implementation with nothing more than a bevy of application developers. This approach is sure to fail. If you take nothing else away from this article by Craig Mullins, make sure you understand this: every organization that manages data using a database management system (DBMS) requires a database administration group to ensure the effective use and deployment of the company's databases. Reorganizing the DB2 Catalog and Directory, Part
1 Part
2 Part
3. Since DB2 V4 it has been possible to reorganize the DB2 Catalog and DB2 Directory using the native IBM REORG utility. This article describes how to reorganize the DB2 catalog and provides some implementation tips and advice.
Why
DBAs Must be Jacks-of-all-Trades. This article is an excerpt from my book, Database Administration: The Complete Guide to Practices and Procedures. It provides a nice introduction to the management discipline of database administration and is useful for DBAs, DBA managers, and anyone who has to interact with DBAs. After reading this article folks should gain a better appreciation for what a DBA does all day long. The
Changing Face of the Database. Database management systems (DBMSs) are the heart of the modern IT infrastructure. Modern database systems, however, are becoming increasingly large and complex. This article looks at the changing trends for database management systems including Internet enabling databases, management and administration issues, and incorporating procedural logic into the DBMS. Keeping Your
Databases up to P.A.R.: The DBA Corner A day in the life of a DBA is usually quite hectic... and to add to the chaos, DBAs are expected to know everything about everything. This article discusses how DBAs can focus on P.A.R. (Performance, Administration, and Recovery) to institute a proactive approach to database administration. DB2
User-Defined Functions. As of DB2 Version 6, it is possible to create user-defined functions to supplement the built-in function supplied with DB2. This article provides an introduction to UDFs and discusses their usage. DBA
Certification: The DBA Corner. Professional certification is a recent trend in IT and is available for many different IT jobs. Certifications programs are available for most of the popular DBMS platforms today. This article discusses the trend and offers guidance on certification for database administrators. Temporary Tables -- Declared and
Created. As of V5, DB2 enables developers to create and utilize temporary tables. But why are they needed? And how are temporary tables supported in DB2 for OS/390? This article examines these issues.
Craig
Mullins Answers Your Database Administration Questions. This Q&A session is from a web seminar Craig conducted on searchdatabase.com on the topic of Introduction to Database Administration, (or DBA 101). You can watch this web seminar now by clicking here. Using TIMESTAMP Columns versus DATE and TIME
Columns, Part
1 and Part
2. This two-part article examines the pros and cons of using a TIMESTAMP column versus using DATE and TIME columns to store date and time information in a DB2 table. Managing
the Performance of DB2 for OS/390 and z/OS.
This article examines DB2 performance tuning from three different aspects: the system, the database and the application. It provides general guidance on tuning in each of the areas and then discusses how BMC Software's performance solutions can be used to deliver optimal performance. DB2
Data Type Usage Tips. Data type and length are the most fundamental integrity constraints applied to data in a database. This article provides an introduction to data type and length choices and discusses the ramifications of several different DB2 data type scenarios. The
Database Report: 2Q2002.
Latest installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses primarily on the recent DBMS vendor rankings from Gartner and IDC (as well as the highlights of Oracle's antics in the second quarter). Database
Design -- From Logical to Physical: The DBA Corner. Database design is the process of transforming a logical data model into an actual physical database. Assuming that the logical data model is complete, though, what must be done to implement a physical database? This article briefly discusses an approach to transforming logical models to physical databases. DB2
Performance Traces. This article, excerpted from Craig's book, DB2 Developer's Guide, provides an introduction to DB2 performance traces. DBMS
Architecture: The DBA Corner. Choosing a DBMS is
not as simple as you might expect. There are different types of DBMS
each with
different architectures and purposes. A DB2 for z/OS Performance
Road Map. A database application, at its core, requires three components in order to operate: the system, the database and the application. To deliver performance, the DBA must be able to monitor and tune each of these components. This article provides a performance road map to mainframe DB2 based on these three components. How Much
Availability is Enough?: The DBA Corner. In this Internet age the push to provide never-ending uptime continues unabated. Pushed to the ultimate everyone would request -- an entire year of uptime -- 365 days a year 24 hours a day. Clearly it is a laudable goal to achieve 100% availability, but just as clearly it is unreasonable to assume that 100% availability can be achieved. This article discusses a reasonable approach to data availability requirements. eDBA:
Online Database Reorganization. The tenth installment of the eDBA series examines the impact of reorganization on availability and the growing trend of reorganizing databases while they remain online. The 'Top Ten' Problem. A common application development problem is the need to retrieve a limited number of qualifying rows from a database. For example, maybe you need to list just the top ten best selling items from inventory, or a list of the ten employees with the highest salary. This article discusses several ways to accomplish this using DB2. A DB2 for z/OS Performance
Road Map. A
database application, at its core, requires three components in order
to operate: the system, the database and the application. To deliver
performance, the DBA must be able to monitor and tune each of these
components. This article provides a performance road map to mainframe
DB2 based on these three components. The
Database Report: 1Q2002. Latest installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses primarily on Oracle, including coverage of their security, financials for their fiscal third quarter, pricing flare-ups, and other goings on. What is a
DBA?: The DBA Corner. If your company uses a database management system (DBMS) then you most likely have a database administration group. But what is a DBA and why are they needed? This article discusses how DBAs are required in order to ensure effective database usage. Using Templates and Lists in DB2
Utilities. As of DB2 V7, IBM offers more functionality in their basic utilities. This article examines how to use templates and lists to enable utilities to operate on groups of DB2 objects.
A
View to a Kill. An adaptation of a presentation that discusses the lack of merit in creating base table views. Select
Database Utilities With Care: The DBA Corner. Every DBA uses database utilities to manage and control their databases. But there is a lot of confusion in the marketplace with regard to utilities these days. This DBA Corner column looks at database utilities, particularly as they impact the DB2 for OS/390. Issuing SQL Statements in DB2
Utilities. This short article discusses the EXEC SQL utility control statement. EXEC SQL was added to Version 7 of DB2 for OS/390 to allow SQL statements to be issued in conjunction with DB2 utilities. eDBA:
Intelligent Automation of DBA Tasks. The ninth installment of the on-going eDBA series discusses how intelligent automation of DBA tasks can optimize performance and minimize the DBA's growing workload. Forty
Tips in 60 Minutes. Forty quick tips on administration and performance aspects of DB2 for OS/390. Adapted from a 1999 IDUG presentation. An
Introduction to Triggers in DB2 for OS/390. A quick introduction to the features and functionality of triggers available to mainframe DB2 databases and applications. DRDA. A short introduction to IBM's Distributed Relational Database Architecture (DRDA). Adapted from my book, DB2 Developer's Guide. Measuring DBA
Effectiveness: The DBA Corner. Measuring the performance of IT professionals can be a difficult proposition. This DBA Corner column looks at several different ways of measuring the effectiveness of DBAs. Architectures
for Clustering: Shared Nothing and Shared Disk. Clustering can bring extra computing power and improved availability. Choosing the architecture that makes sense with your hardware and software makes all the difference. This article discusses the predominant clustering architectures as well as an overview of how they are deployed for the various DB2 platforms. Dealing With
Downtime: The DBA Corner. This installment of The DBA Corner focuses on the issues, concerns, and techniques DBAs can use to achieve high database availability. The
Database Report: 4Q2001. Another installation of regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses on Oracle's heightened competition with IBM, Larry Ellison, as well as coverage of the goings on at Sybase, IBM, and Microsoft.
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
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| Craig
Mullins: Articles Published in 2001
Using Check Constraints to Simulate
Domains. An introduction to the capabilities of DB2 check constraints and how they can be used to somewhat simulate the relational concept of domains. Database
Fragmentation and Disorganization: The DBA Corner. This installment of The DBA Corner focuses on the reasons databases need to be reorganized, and how reorganization can be performed. Database
Disaster Planning: The DBA Corner. It is imperative that the DBA group is prepared to continue business operations in the event of a disaster. This installment of The DBA Corner discusses aspects of planning for database disaster recovery.
Modern
Database Administration, Part 3. The final installment of this three part article covering the changing role of the DBA discusses the growing size of databases, PDA database management, heterogeneity, and rapidly change DBMS software. Each is examined for its impact on corporate DBAs and intelligent automation is presented as a useful solution to database systems management issues and problems. Part 2 Part 1 COPYTOCOPY -- A New DB2 Utility for
Version 7. Logic,
e-Business, and the Procedural eDBA. This installment of the regular eDBA
column discusses the impact of procedural logic in the form of
triggers, stored procedures, and user-defined functions. As the DBMS
adapts to support more procedural capabilities, organizations must
modify and expand the way they handle database management and
administration. The
Database Report: 3Q2001. Fourth installment of my regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses on the events of July 2001 through September 2001, and includes a special focus on the open source DBMS market. Dissecting
Database Performance: The DBA Corner. This installment of The DBA Corner focuses on database performance, breaking the discussion down into three components that must be monitored and tuned to optimize database systems: the DBMS/system, the database, and the application.
Modern
Database Administration, Part 2. The second part of this three part article discussing the changing role of the DBA covers the management and administration of procedural database objects such as triggers, stored procedures, and user-defined functions. The Role of
the DBA Has Expanded: The DBA Corner. Premier edition of a new column exclusively covering database administration policies, procedures, tools, and technologies. This initial column outlines database administration and topics that will be covered in subsequent columns.
Modern
Database Administration, Part 1. This first part of a three part article discussing the changes in database administration covers the role of the DBA as databases are hooked up to the Internet. An
Overview of DB2 for OS/390, Version 7. IBM released Version 7 of their mainframe DB2 DBMS in late March 2001. This overview examines the new features and functionality available in DB2 V7. Design
and the eDBA. This installment of the on-going eDBA series provides an exploration of e-business's impact on the design process and a discussion of the basics of assuring proper database design.
Control
Your DB2 Memory Usage Before It Controls You. A product overview of BMC Pool Advisor for DB2 for OS/390. The article discusses how Pool Advisor automatically analyzes and tunes DB2 memory structures based on throughput and usage. The
Database Report: 2Q2001.
Third installation of a regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. This edition focuses on the events of April 2001 through June 2001: including the IBM acquisition of Informix and its impact on the DBMS market and the release of Oracle9i. Online
Resources of the eDBA. This article exposes some of the vast sources of information on DBMS software and database administration that are available online.
Intelligently
Managing DB2 Memory Structures. Relational databases perform better when sufficient computer memory is allocated for their use. This article discusses the four types of memory structures used by DB2 for OS/390 and discusses a solution for intelligently managing memory for DB2's usage. DB2 Table Space Options. Why
Data is Still Important. Throughout the years marketers have proclaimed that many new technologies or techniques will make data somehow irrelevant. This article discusses this odd behavior and tries to explain why data will never become obsolete. The
Database Report: 1Q2001. Second installation of a regular column
for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace.
This edition focuses primarily on the activities of Oracle, IBM,
Microsoft, and Sybase during the first quarter of 2001. As the demand for 24x7 processing increases, DBAs are looking for ways to perform database maintenance tasks with minimal or not outages. This article discusses high availability database recovery techniques to meet this demand head on. The
eDBA and Recovery. This article discusses database recovery within an e-businesses context. What approaches are available to reduce or perhaps eliminate outages when databases must be recovered. IT's
a Crazy World. The world of Information Technology (IT) never ceases to amaze. There's always something new and often times some crazy things are passed off as logical and considered common knowledge. This article takes a second look at some misconceptions held within the IT community. Getting
Down to Data-Basics. For e-businesses new to database design and administration, this article will serve as a primer on implementing DBA services. The
24x365 Availability Challenge. The
Database Report: 4Q2000. First installation of a regular column for TDAN covering the activities in the DBMS software marketplace. The primary focus of this quarterly column will be on the major players in the industry, namely Oracle, IBM (DB2), and Microsoft (SQL Server). Additional coverage from time to time will discuss the other players such as Informix, Sybase, NCR/Teradata, Software AG (Adabas and Tamino), PostgreSQL, MySQL, and others. This first article provides an overview of recent happenings at Oracle and IBM. An Update on
Oracle. Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
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Craig Mullins: Articles Published in 2000
LOB
Columns vs. VARCHAR and VARGRAPHIC. A quick review and comparison of new (V6) LOB columns versus DB2's older data types for storing large character (VARCHAR) and graphic (VARGRAPHIC) data.
The
eDBA and XML. As DBAs become eDBAs they must understand the requirements and technology driving e-business and Internet business enablement. This article discusses one such technology, XML and how it will impact the job of the DBA. Using
TIMESTAMP Columns Versus DATE & TIME Columns. Denormalization
Guidelines for SQL Server Databases. Normalization is the process of putting one fact in one appropriate place. This optimizes updates at the expense of retrievals. This article itemizes several reasons why denormalization of data may be necessary and provides guidelines for successful implementation. Updates,
Trends, and Thoughts. News
From the Front - The Database Wars Escalate. Using Java
With DB2 for OS/390.
Managing
Database Change.
Character
Versus Numeric Data Types Managing for the Future.
The
eDBA and Java.
As DBAs become eDBAs they will migrate their skill-set from the traditional, bricks & mortar world, to that of the e-business world. One aspect of this migration is a better understanding of Java from a development and performance perspective.
Pervasive Computing And Pocket Databases.
The 'Top Ten' Problem. A common application development problem is the need to retrieve a limited number of qualifying rows from a database. For example, maybe you need to list just the top ten best selling items from inventory, or a list of the ten employees with the highest salary. This article discusses several ways to accomplish this using SQL Server.. Intelligent
Automation Answer to DBA Overload. DB2
Everyplace: You
Can Take It With You. DB2
User Defined Functions. A basic introduction to the capabilities and implementation of user-defined functions (UDFs) in DB2 for OS/390 Version 6.
Reorganizing the DB2 Catalog and Directory. Open Source Database
Management Systems. Transaction Log Basics. The transaction log is a fundamental component of Microsoft SQL Server. All changes to data in the database are recorded in the transaction log. This article provides a basic introduction to the way in which SQL Server implements and uses transaction logs. An Update on
the Database Wars. The
eDBA and Data Availability. The most critical issue facing DBAs as their businesses morph into e-businesses is availability. This article discusses how DBAs need to change into eDBAs to support the availability needs of their on-line, connected organizations.
High
Speed Transaction Recovery If your data is not available, your applications cannot run, and therefore, your company is losing business. Lost business translates into lower profitability and, perhaps, a lower stock valuation for your company. These are all detrimental to the business, so the DBA must do everything to ensure that databases are kept online and operational. High
Speed Transaction Recovery. The
DAMA Symposium and Meta Data Conference 2000 Creating SQL
Results Sets with Aggregate and Detail Data A Basic IT
Library DB2
Triggers. A basic introduction to the capabilities and implementation of triggers in DB2 for OS/390 Version 6. Accuracy
Versus Speed Minimizing
Outages With Transaction Recovery DB2 and the Procedural DBA Two
Interesting Acquisitions
Index: 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 and older
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© 2010, Mullins Consulting, Inc.