Facing an upgrade to a new version of SQL Server but concerned about what might not run so well (or what may break?). Thinking about adding a startup trace flag, changing a compatibility mode, altering a configuration, or rewriting an important piece of SQL? Why be unsure about what the effect will be when you CAN know the answer without living it?

Microsoft's new Database Experimentation Assistant (DEA) combines the concept of a distributed replayable trace with real-time playback and before versus after analysis. Come to this session to learn the different ways you can use the DEA tool and to see demonstrated a real-world workload comparison.

You'll leave this session with an understanding of what the tool is, what it can do for you and how to use it. Never "hope for the best" again when it comes to upgrades and changes to your SQL instances.

You will learn:

• The new Database Experimentation Assistant tool - what it is, what it can do for you, what you might want to use it for
• Understand the ways in which you can use the tool, the architecture required for a distributed replay, and options (in Azure) for setting up such an environment
• See the tool and the reports it generates for a real-world workload analysis