Azure & DevOps Podcast

Bob Ward: SQL Server - Episode 321

Oct 28, 2024

In this conversation, Bob Ward, Principal Architect for the Microsoft Azure Data team with over 30 years at Microsoft, dives into the evolution of SQL Server from its early days to its latest innovations. He discusses the transformative integration of AI in SQL Server, including features like SQL Copilot and natural language query generation, which enhance search and data retrieval. Bob also addresses the challenges of AI integration and the importance of security and content moderation, shedding light on the future of database management.

40:12

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Episode guests

Bob Ward

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

SQL Server has evolved significantly to include AI integration, enabling natural language queries and smarter searching capabilities for improved data interaction.

The platform supports hybrid searching by combining traditional SQL queries with AI functionalities, enhancing data retrieval for both structured and unstructured data.

Deep dives

The Evolution of SQL Server

SQL Server has undergone significant changes since its inception, transitioning from a basic relational database system in the mid-90s to a robust solution that now includes support for various platforms, including Linux and cloud environments. Initially designed to compete with other database systems like Oracle, SQL Server has evolved to become a foundational product for Microsoft, demonstrating adaptability with features catering to modern demands. The integration of technologies such as hybrid cloud solutions and containerization has allowed SQL Server to maintain its relevance and appeal as businesses shift to more complex infrastructure. Furthermore, with the introduction of SQL Server 2022, it now offers capabilities that extend from edge computing to full cloud integrations, making it a versatile choice for current and future applications.

Intro

3min

The Evolution of SQL Server

6min

Harnessing AI for Enhanced SQL Searching

8min

Enhancements in Azure SQL Database and Security Considerations

4min

Navigating the Future of SQL and AI Models

16min

Innovating SQL Server with Natural Language Processing and Modern Tools

2min

Bob Ward is a Principal Architect for the Microsoft Azure Data team, which owns the development for Microsoft SQL Edge to Cloud. Bob has worked for Microsoft for 30-plus years on every version of SQL Server shipped from OS/2 1.1 to SQL Server 2022, including Azure SQL. Bob is a well-known speaker on SQL Server, Azure SQL, AI, and Microsoft Fabric, often presenting talks on new releases, internals, and specialized topics at events such as SQLBits, Microsoft Build, Microsoft Ignite, PASS Summit, DevIntersection, and VS Live. You can also learn Azure SQL from him on the popular series aka.ms/azuresql4beginners. You can follow him at @bobwardms or linkedin.com/in/bobwardms. Bob is the author of the books Pro SQL Server on Linux, SQL Server 2019 Revealed, Azure SQL Revealed, and SQL Server 2022 Revealed, available from Apress Media.

Topics of Discussion:

[4:22] Bob’s long history with Microsoft and the evolution of SQL Server.

[6:41] What are the big use cases that SQL Server can now do?

[7:38] Beyond RDBMS framework.

[9:34] Building innovation off an already trusted brand.

[9:50] What’s the vision of AI on SQL Server?

[10:51] It’s all about smarter searching.

[14:26] AI assistance features in SQL Server, such as the SQL Copilot and natural language to SQL query generation.

[16:02] Hybrid searching.

[19:41] Challenges and opportunities in AI Integration.

[20:43] Content moderation is now being added to the loop.

[22:39] The categories of different models.