Introduction

In previous chapters, you saw how you can improve the database server's performance in different ways. You have learnt how to improve the performance of queries by implementing proper indexes and keeping statistics updated, using query hints and plan guides, implementing optimum physical database design, and changing server configuration settings.

It is natural that you try your best to get the maximum out of your database server by tuning your databases in different ways as just described, even though you may be left with a few stored procedures/queries, which run slowly, if you do so; you also won't be able to do much about that, due to some hardware limitations. For example, your database server is supposed to support multiple applications, and one of these is a reporting application that executes expensive, calculated queries that are essential for the reporting application in your environment. Despite knowing that your database server has hardware limitations, you don't...