It seems like a silly question; organisations that use SQL databases, but what organisations and size are they?
Typical SQL Server Users
Since SQL Server has had an express edition (formerly Desktop Edition) available for customers to use for free, its use has grown massively.
More and more software has used it as the back end to store application data and settings. This has led to the mass adoption of SQL servers in businesses and organisations worldwide.
Once the organisation has outgrown the server, there is an easy upgrade path through the standard edition, then the enterprise edition.
What size business uses SQL Server?
As Managed SQL Server has several different editions, it caters for all sizes of businesses, so it will not surprise that all companies will likely need SQL database support.
Small companies may have SQL Server running on express edition instances, possibly used for Backup Exec or an industry-specific piece of software.
Medium-sized businesses are more likely to have multiple databases, possibly consisting of internally written software which needs more support.
As databases change, they get older, which can appear as performance issues. Performance can degrade over time if processes are not set up to re-index and update statistics regularly.
A part-time DBA (Database Administrator) will likely be looking out for the database server. A developer or infrastructure engineer may also be tasked with this responsibility.
Large businesses, particularly those grown by acquisition, can end up with server sprawl. Dozens and even hundreds of SQL instances are spread everywhere, leading to massive licensing costs.
Generally, large enterprises have a team of DBAs to monitor and maintain the databases.
“Not My Job” – The SQL Problem
First, this is exceptionally poor to attend, but it usually comes around as no one wants to get blamed for breaking anything.
Occasionally you find or hear the phrase, not my job or role in a department.
With training, this can be removed as an excuse.
The other alternative is to hire someone to fill that missing skill set or outsource the role completely.
Why outsource SQL Database Support?
I’m not going to lie; DBAs are expensive. A simple job search can show average salaries in London of £70k. Even outside London, average wages are around the £50k mark.
What if we get a junior DBA? How would you know if they were any good or not?
Think about it for a few minutes – would you want to leave one of the most critical roles that look after every piece of business-critical data your business has to someone new to the role?
This is a possibility, but I would highly recommend not hiring a skill set with which you have little or no experience internally.
Outsourcing to an experienced Microsoft Partner is the best way to go.
This is the most cost-effective way to get the skills your business needs without worrying about finding someone with the right but unfamiliar skill set.
You can even get an out-of-hours service giving your business 24/7 access to DBAs in emergencies.
Conclusion
For a quote to cover SQL database support, get in touch, and we can discuss your requirements.