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The most important trend I see is the Cloud - platform creation, integration, management, and cross compatibility between systems and devices, hosted and supported by the World Wide Web. Enabling this on their product offerings is a large step for Microsoft. Microsoft has released various versions of SQL Server in an effort to remain competitive and to unify database connectivity between the varying devices and access methods used today, whether using a PC, Mac, Unix/Linux, or a mobile device. Microsoft had a history of not playing well with others in their early years, however in the post dot-com boom era, and following 9/11, they realized that they needed to embrace (or buy outright) their competitors if they wanted to remain the dominant powerhouse they became, or at least begin healthy coopetition to unify the industry. Releasing different, "lite" versions of SQL server not only enables home users and mobile users to have basic database functionality and connectivity, but also lends itself to cross platform development and use on compact devices like tablets, netbooks, and smartphones. Further to that, being able to also connect these same systems and devices to Enterprise databases in the office further enables a companies most valuable asset (its workers) to generate and maintain business like never before, and keep the system updated in real time. In 2011 the world is moving at a faster pace than ever anticipated and businesses are the cornerstone of this flux because they have to supply what consumers demand. Being able to design, build, and administer a DBMS on the fly from any locale and on any device is extremely valuable to any business, especially medium to large sized business, because it allows them to better manage their data streams to generate revenue. Additionally, making these various editions affordable (some being free) brings small businesses into the fold as well because they too can benefit greatly from the added capabilities and security of SQL Server within their smaller infrastructures. Since a lot of Windows-based hosting providers already use SQL Server in their back office, allowing their customers to lease their hardware to create and manage their own databases is proving quite valuable. The Cloud trend is directly related to cross platform creation, integration, and management in that the data made available in the Cloud is warehoused in RDBMS's that are maintained in large server farms and replicated across the globe. With the increase in independent developers and programmers over the past few years, connecting to complex back office databases is, for the user, as easy as installing a new app on their devices in most cases. The developers have taken responsibility to code the proper connectors within the program and the user needs only to enter server and login details to access the data, if the database is not integrated with the program itself.
What do you think?
-Geek
