Azure & DevOps Podcast

Erik Darling: Database Technical Debt - Episode 315

Sep 16, 2024

Erik Darling, a DBA and architect known for his expertise in database performance, dives into the world of technical debt in SQL Server. He shares his journey and early challenges, emphasizing how common issues evolve over time. The conversation highlights the impact of abstraction layers like ORMs on performance, and offers essential advice for database schema design. Erik also addresses staffing challenges in SQL environments and the unique aspects of Azure SQL migrations, stressing the need for ongoing education in the field.

46:24

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Episode guests

Erik Darling

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Quick takeaways

Technical debt in SQL Server arises from outdated practices, leading to performance issues such as inefficient queries and improper indexing.

Developers using ORMs often lack understanding of SQL performance impacts, resulting in inefficient database interactions and unexpected query issues.

Deep dives

Understanding Technical Debt in SQL Server

Technical debt in SQL Server often manifests as performance issues that arise from longstanding practices and outdated information. As databases mature, they accumulate complexities, such as inefficient queries and improper indexing, that can drastically hinder their performance. The connection between software development and database management becomes evident when developers unknowingly introduce inefficiencies through frameworks like Object-Relational Mappers (ORMs), which can generate oversized and poorly optimized queries. Recognizing the legacy of coding practices and misconceptions can help developers pinpoint areas of technical debt that need addressing, ultimately enhancing database performance.

Intro

3min

From Isolation to Insight: Navigating SQL Server Challenges

18min

Understanding Technical Debt in Database Management

2min

Tackling Technical Debt in SQL Server

4min

Understanding SQL Server Performance: The Impact of User-Defined Functions

2min

Navigating Azure SQL Migration Challenges

14min

Elevating DBA Skills

4min

Erik Darling makes your database faster in exchange for money. He is a DBA, developer, and architect with a track record of tackling even the most challenging technical issues. He runs a SQL Server Consulting and Coaching practice. In addition to his consulting services, he is also passionate about blogging, training, and contributing to open-source projects that help with SQL Server troubleshooting. He's given many public speaking engagements on the topic at conferences and events around the world, like PASS Summit and SQLBits.

Topics of Discussion:

[2:57] Eric's journey into SQL Server and database performance tuning.

[4:25] Challenges faced in early SQL Server work and evolving technical debt.

[7:47] The standard problems with databases over time.

[11:14] How technical debt shows up in SQL Server databases.

[15:20] How abstraction layers like ORMs contribute to technical debt.

[22:38] Performance issues as a result of technical debt in databases.

[25:19] Key advice on database schema design to improve performance.

[30:46] Key differences between Azure SQL DB and managed instances.

[37:23] Staffing challenges and solutions for managing SQL Server environments.

Mentioned in this Episode:

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