In this conversation, Matt Gordon, a Microsoft Data Platform MVP with a rich background in SQL Server and data technologies, shares his professional journey, including overcoming a childhood stutter to become a speaker. He discusses the evolution of database tools, highlighting the shift to Flyway and the importance of effective monitoring tools. Matt also emphasizes best practices for database change management in DevOps and the impact of ORM on performance. His insights into embracing microservices and adapting to various database sizes make for an engaging listen.
Matt Gordon emphasizes the importance of supportive environments for personal growth, particularly in cultivating effective public speaking skills within consulting careers.
He highlights the necessity of a cultural shift in organizations to prioritize disciplined change management practices in database operations for successful DevOps integration.
Deep dives
Transitioning to Consulting and Public Speaking
Transitioning to consulting nine years ago marked a significant turning point in Matt Gordon's career, thanks to a supportive manager who encouraged him to speak publicly despite his initial fears. His early experiences with public speaking were challenging; numerous technical issues during his first presentation left him feeling defeated, yet he found encouragement in realizing that the audience was rooting for him. This realization transformed his perspective on public speaking, turning it from a source of anxiety into an enjoyable opportunity to teach and connect with others. Matt credits the supportive community around him as instrumental in his growth, emphasizing how vital it is in consulting roles to have an encouraging work environment for personal and professional advancement.
Stability and Evolution of SQL Server
Since beginning his journey with SQL Server in 2000, Matt has noted that while the platform has evolved significantly, its core querying and development experiences have remained largely consistent. This stability allowed teams to upgrade and transition to the cloud without needing to relearn foundational skills extensively, easing the integration of newer technologies. Even as additional features and tools were introduced, the familiar environment facilitated a smoother adoption process for long-time users. The ability to leverage a consistent platform with evolving features has been a critical advantage for organizations scaling their data operations over the years.
Database DevOps: Managing Change Effectively
Effective change management in database operations requires a cultural shift within organizations, ensuring that team leads and executives understand the complexities involved in making database changes. While technical teams often encompass a buy-in for tools and processes designed for managing changes carefully, outside pressures from higher-ups can compromise adherence to these processes, leading to errors and operational issues. The challenge often lies in maintaining discipline in not making exceptions, as even rare deviations can lead to a breakdown in established workflows, affecting the overall stability. Thus, fostering a collaborative culture that discourages shortcuts while empowering team members to follow procedures is essential for successful DevOps practices in databases.
Monitoring and Optimizing Database Performance
Monitoring the health of databases effectively requires robust tools and practices tailored to provide early warning signals before issues escalate into user complaints. Organizations often struggle with limited resources for comprehensive monitoring, resulting in environments that can be critical to business health without adequate budget for development. However, investing in high-quality monitoring tools—even if they represent a significant expenditure—can be justified based on the potential savings from preventing costly downtimes and errors. Matt encourages practitioners to advocate for these investments and commit to establishing a monitoring framework that not only ensures operational stability but also provides necessary insights into performance trends.
Matt is a Microsoft Data Platform MVP and has worked with SQL Server since 2000. He is the leader of the Lexington, KY Data Technology Group and a frequent domestic and international community speaker. He's an IDERA ACE alumnus and Redgate Community Ambassador. His original data professional role was in database development, which quickly evolved into query tuning work that further evolved into being a DBA in the healthcare realm. He has supported several critical systems utilizing SQL Server and managed dozens of live site SQL Server implementations. As a Microsoft Lead Data Architect at Centric Consulting, he works with customers large, medium, and small to migrate to the cloud, make their data estate operate efficiently, and find the right tools and solutions within the Microsoft Data Platform.
Topics of Discussion:
[3:08] Matt’s career journey and overcoming a fear of public speaking.
[5:42] Changes and consistencies in working with SQL Server over the years.
[7:18] Advice on the process and tools for database change management and DevOps.
[12:29] Recommendations for database monitoring and observability.
[19:30] Specific monitoring tool recommendations and their pros and cons.
[24:04] The role of ORMs and their impact on database performance.
[30:59] Thoughts on the evolution of microservices and database architecture patterns.
[36:55] Considerations for working with small versus large database sizes.
