What’s New in SQL Server 2008 R2

In case you didn’t catch the recent announcement, Microsoft is releasing “SQL Server 2008 R2” soon. SQL Server 2008 R2 is basically a way to:

1. Release new features without having to release “add-on” packs (a.k.a. “feature packs”)
2. Give users that warm, fuzzy feeling that they aren’t using “Beta software released as final release”
3. Update SQL Server to use the latest in hardware and virtualization trends
4. Update SQL Server to use the new Office 2010 features
5. Gives marketing something to do until the next release

List of new features in SQL Server 2008 R2

Easier to manage multiple servers from single Management Studio - new wizards + new reporting features

• More policies and options
• “Database Schema” Visual Studio project type
• Master Data Hub and Stewardship Portal – version tracking across enterprises
• WTH kind of name is “Stewardship Portal”?!
• Integration with Office 2010

SQL Server 2008 R2 is expected to be released in a public beta in Summer, 2009.