The Data Relay Journey

This year I was Head of Marketing and Social Media for Data Relay, the conference previously known as SQL Relay. It is a privilege to be able to help put on an event which in 5 consecutive days, travels to 5 different UK cities across the breadth of the country. This year we invested a lot of time trying to improve the conference. We re-branded to Data Relay to be more in keeping with the breadth of the Microsoft Data Platform. We introduced a Code of Conduct to help encourage diversity at the conference and several other things. Our aim is to keep improving the conference.

I was the Bristol Venue Event Owner and this time delivered a session about the end to end process of data management, things to consider when improving data quality and data science in industry, based on findings from my PhD research. The session also covered data collection areas, that are often led by marketing teams. I shared details of my research findings about the complexity of managing database systems, the use of the Microsoft data platform for research and the possible future AI developments to help people manage database systems with greater ease.

Ignite 2018 key announcements

The Microsoft Ignite 2018 news and highlights from the event.

Research skills for industry experts

It is great to see the name of the SQL Relay conference change to Data Relay. The conference encompasses the full breath of the Microsoft data platform and provides free Microsoft Data, AI & Analytics training conferences on your doorstep.

I am privileged to be speaking on Friday at Data Relay in Bristol to share my experience of providing high quality data analytics for my research using the Microsoft Data Platform. 

SQL Relay 2018

I am speaking at SQL Relay 2018 in Bristol, Friday 12 October. My session is: Research skills for industry experts.

Abstract
It is becoming ever increasing the need to present analytic outcomes. Analytics are only ever as good, as the robustness of the data collection and analysis. This session will cover the raft of research skills that can be applied in industry to improve the quality of your investigative work.

MVP Wall

At Microsoft Ignite 2018 Microsoft devoted an entire wall to list all the names of the MVPs. I felt very humbled to have my name on the MVP wall with so many amazing people. It is such a privilege to be a part of the Microsoft Data Community. #datafamily #MVPbuzz

hashtag

And there is my name.

SQLBits 2019

SQLBits 2019 has been announced. It is in the heart of Manchester. The last time it was in Manchester was in 2009. I am already excited about this next event. 

Azure SQL Database Managed Instance GA

At Microsoft Ignite it was announced that Azure SQL Database Managed Instance will be general availability on October 1, 2018.

Azure SQL Database Managed Instance is a deployment model of Azure SQL Database.  This service enables customers to migrate existing databases to a fully managed PaaS cloud environment.  It is possible to use the Data Migration Service (DMS) in Azure to lift and shift their on-premises SQL Server.  This can be a useful tool to use for secure  databases that reduces the management overhead. including automatic patching and version updates, automated backups and high-availability. 

Reading
Azure SQL Database Managed Instance, General Purpose tier general availability
Azure Database Migration Service and tool updates – Ignite 2018