Network, learn, ask a question, meet other folk, get fed - these are all things that happen at user group events. These events are a really great opportunity to socialise in an informal learning experience - if you want your own exposure then come and do a 1 - 5 minute nugget in front of your peers.
Remember to tell your friends and the people you work with; make sure you register as soon as you can.
5.30pm – 6:00pm Registration and networking
Meet and greet.
6:00pm – 6:30pm Round Table discussion and Nuggets - ALL
Take stock and get the latest news in the SQL Server field. This is also a great opportunity to ask any burning questions you have, may be a problem at work.
It's also a great opportunity to share your knowledge and gain exposure in the industry by giving a short 1 - 6 minute "nugget" demo/tip.
6:30pm - 7:30pm Steve Powell - Automating SSIS package production using BIML with BIDS Helper.
Not many people have heard of BIML, even less have used it. We'll demonstrate how to automate the dull repetition out of ETL/SSIS projects with the free BIML tools that come with BIDS Helper and outline how you can build a meta data driven ETL solution that's flexible and reliable.
Steve has been working with SQL server for longer than he likes to admit and developing code for longer still. He works as a BI trouble shooter for a health care oriented technology consultancy. He spends far too much time wrestling with recalcitrant servers and swearing at developers who think documentation is something that happens to other people, but its the only way he can fund his sons ongoing Lego addiction.
7:30pm – 8:00pm BREAK: Light refreshments
8:00pm – 9:00pm Martin Bell - Building Databases with SQL Server Data Tools
It does what it says on the tin plus more.
You should all know that handsome debonair SQL Server MVP Martin Bell. Currently busy organising the SQLBits conference, SQL Relay and SQL Saturday Scotland it is a wonder this is not an obituary.
9:00pm - Close and down the pub