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SQL Server 2008 XML Optimization Tips
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So, What is a MVP Anyway?
As you already know I am a fan of the MVP. Especially when it comes to SQL Server. Many have worked hard to attain that status; some due to a love of the product and helping others; some as a part of their daily work.
However, I would like to expand on the concept a little. I think there are a lot of MVPs out there that do not have the suffix MVP to their title. I personally find the resources and people I know to be just as valuable as my own personal skill. Most of the people on my list do not have the title MVP…in my life, they are.
Often, I don’t need someone to provide me with a solution as much as direction for one or more reasonable approaches (does that mean Google should be an MVP?). These are the kind of people I have in IM, Email, Linked-In, SSWUG, Users Groups, Facebook.
Following is a response from one of our members that plays this out a bit. James Writes:
I agree with you about your assertion of a SQL Server expert. Adding in BI makes it very difficult to be an expert at all things SQL Server. I have been working strictly with SQL Server (and BI) for over 10 years now. And yes I still have lots to learn or learn new behaviors. But I know I know more than my students and clients. So to them – I am an expert.
I am not a fan of the MVP status. It is so arbitrary. It is not something that is clearly defined. It is so Microsoft.
I write and teach courses…not…the vendor’s in this case Microsoft’s courses. So I get no credit for this work in Microsoft’s eyes.
I have four kids – I work for cash. I don’t have time to hang out on Microsoft’s forums answering questions. But I answer tons of questions every day from previous students and clients. Sure I get paid by the clients but I do not bill them for the 5-10 minute answers. I assume it is part of my ongoing work for them. Will I ever be considered for an MVP? No…
For now, I am content with being an “Expert” on SQL Server for my students and clients.
Thanks,
James
Well James, as far as I am concerned, you are an MVP for those in your circle. Shine on.
As always, send your comments to btaylor@sswug.org.
Cheers,
Ben
SSWUG.org Free Expo Event Friday, September 24, 2010 9:00 a.m. PT
SQL Server Performance Monitoring, Tuning & Troubleshooting will be the focus of this expo – Working with SQL Server to provide for excellent performance means understanding your options, you’ll learn about query plans and the types of information and tuning help they can provide, numerous monitoring and performance management options and much more.
Register here.