Having released SQL Server 2008 to manufacturing at the start of August 2008, Microsoft is moving onward with the delivery of a collection of resources designed to help IT professionals, but also developers and decision makers embrace the new product. SQL Server 2008 was officially launched at the end of February 2008 concomitantly with Windows Server 2008; however, the latest version of Microsoft's data platform was only finalized in the second half of 2008. In this regard, the Redmond giant has put together the SQL Server 2008 Experience, a website dedicated entirely to the data platform, providing an in-depth perspective from Microsoft.

“The launch of the SQL Server 2008 Experience kicks off a worldwide readiness outreach that will reach over 350,000 customers, partners and community members through in-person events over the next year. The SQL Server 2008 Experience web site features over 500 rare video interviews with people from SQL Server engineering and with several SQL Server customers. Each video is available in 11 languages including English, French, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Portuguese, Italian, German, Japanese, Korean, Russian and Spanish,” revealed Anthony Carrabino Sr. Product Manager, SQL Server.

Microsoft is essentially offering SQL customers a one-stop destination set up to deliver not only information, the free trial version bits, deals on training and additional resources, but also examples of how the product can be used, on top of the possibility for customers to find a partner that is offering SQL Server 2008 solutions.

“Other highlights include: over 500 short interviews with the SQL Server engineering team that provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at many technologies in SQL Server 2008; information on a wide range of topics such as business intelligence, compliance, upgrades and application development; customer videos showing how SQL Server 2008 is helping them be more successful; special discounts on SQL Server 2008 books, courses and exams offered by Microsoft Learning, including a free SQL Server 2008 e-book,” Carrabino added.