You can learn more about SQL Server 2008 R2 in free developer training videos on MSDEV. This on demand series will walk through the new features of SQL Server 2008 R2. Topics included: Report Builder 3.0, building your ISV ETL application, ISV Operational application, looking at what R2 edition is right for you and more.

The SQL Server 2008 R2 Series includes:

• SQL Server 2008 R2: Building Your ISV ETL Application describes the process of extracting, transforming and loading data from ERP systems to your BI environment is a critical step in any BI solution. This session will introduce how this process is managed in SQL 2008 R2.
• Server 2008 R2: Building Your ISV Operational Applications covers Microsoft's tools that can be used to support operational decisions, such as Reporting Services and SharePoint.
• SQL Server 2008 R2: Building Your ISV Tactical Applications covers Microsoft's tools that can be used to support tactical decisions, such as Excel Services and PerformancePoint Monitoring and Analytics.
• SQL Server 2008 R2: Building Your ISV Strategic Applications covers Microsoft’s tools that can be used to support strategic decisions, such as PerformancePoint Planning. We will also discuss different Corporate Performance Management.
• SQL Server 2008 R2: Building Your ISV Corporate Performance Management Application covers Microsoft's performance management vision and tools so you can measure overall strategy.
• SQL Server 2008 R2: Report Builder 3.0 looks at Report Builder 3.0 in SQL Server 2008 R2 and the new features now available in this latest release.
• SQL Server 2008 R2: What SQL Server 2008 R2 Edition is right for me? This session highlights key issues to consider when selecting the right SQL Server R2 Edition for your organization.
• SQL Server 2008 R2 Preview for the Developer takes a lap around SQL Server 2008 R2 with a focus on the following components: Data-Tier Applications (DAC), new features in Reporting Services, Project “Gemini” which is now called PowerPivot.

The R2 release brings significant new capabilities and enhancements that can help your business keep pace with today’s growing and changing data management needs. Increase productivity and reduce data management costs by taking advantage of an even more scalable platform with comprehensive database and application management tools. SQL Server 2008 R2 helps users to build rich analysis and reports and helps organizations improve the quality of their data.

You can get started with SQL Server 2008 R2 with the community technology preview for SQL Server 2008 R2  available for download publicly this month at http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/2008/en/us/R2.aspx.

Bruce D. Kyle
ISV Architect Evangelist | Microsoft Corporation