Seeing the light with business intelligence, by David Bennie
After enjoying a sunny weekend, not only are we happier at Thames Valley Park with the delights of Spring and sunshine finally upon us, but there is something else that is making us smile too. This month has seen the launch of SQL Server 2008 R2 and the excitement that seems to be lighting up all around the globe is focused on the breakthrough business intelligence (BI) capabilities it sheds.
What is the situation for you when it comes to data in your medium business? How quickly and easily are you able to access the information you need to make effective decisions about your business? Are you trying to find answers but getting bogged down by outdated or inefficient systems and processes?
In SQL Server 2008 R2, new components have been designed to make BI more accessible to all employees in your medium business, leading to faster and more relevant decision making. The new Master Data Services (MDS) capabilities, and managed self-service reporting allows your users to build a next-generation business intelligence platform that unlocks data, facilitates sharing and collaboration, and empowers your end users, finally giving you an accurate, insightful picture of how your business is performing, and allowing you to concentrate your efforts more efficiently and see where savings can be made.
One feature which has caught the eyes of many is the PowerPivot add-in for Excel. To hear how the world's second-largest container shipper is using it to manage massive demand for data and overcome a "nightmare" read this article from Information Week. To learn more about SQL Server 2008 R2 and to download a free trial, click here.
Also, on the subject of business intelligence, on the 12th May, we’re holding a one day session at our offices in Reading focusing on an end-to-end approach in building and delivering a business intelligence solution using the Microsoft BI platform. The spotlight is on SQL Server 2008 R2 and Microsoft Office System 2010. To register, click here.
It would be great to hear about the pain points your business feels when it comes to data – what is the most common problem you face? Also, don’t forget to let me know your thoughts on the free trial.