Like cars and servicing, regularly used databases benefit from periodic
attention to get the best out of them.
You may not have access to either SQL Server or skilled database administration staff. Therefore EHS Data offers database administration services. This can make a big difference to the quality of your data and system efficiency.
6
point database tune and health check
We suggest that this check, clean and tune is done annually.
Database shrink
Over time, databases grow, not just because of new data but because they become
less tidy. The database shrink is the equivalent of a hard disk defrag.
Index tune
An examination of how your database is used, and if needed,
alteration of indexes for better efficiency.
Transaction log setting review
Your transaction log records your
actions so that in the event of a failure, your database can be restored.
However, unmanaged they grow huge, and slow your database down. The review
determines appropriate setting for your system.
Remove and report orphaned records
When some objects that span
several databases (e.g. variables and sources) are deleted, records can be left
behind. These take up space, and can in some circumstances lead to unexpected
results (for example in custom reports that do not make allowances for this
possibility. These records can be tracked, removed and reported.
Find rogue records
Where either none, or
inappropriate physical limits have been set, rogue data may have slipped past
normal data checking, particularly when operators are either unaware of. It is
also possible (though users are warned on entry) to add data for the future. In
some cases this is correct, but not normally.
...Provide report on
average values plus and minus an agreed standard deviation per variable and
sample point
...Alter rogue values so that they are still there - just
don't graph - mark with comment.
...Add appropriate physical limits based
on statistical methods on your data
...Once rogue values have been
flagged, new appropriate physical limits can be added.
...Where no
physical limits exist, update the phys limits table with max values of ave plus
and minus 3 std dev's
...If required set trigger levels on all sample
points for values exceeding an agreed standard deviation over average
Improve Group and Suite system
Find
Variables and Sample points that are not in any groups, yet have data, and
suggest appropriate action.
Cost: £375 per database.
Database traces
Using remote administration, it is possible
to set up a trace to "watch" your unique activity pattern, and to recommend
tuning based on its findings.
Backups
It goes without saying that it is VITALLY
important. We can assist in setting these up for you.
Note: Database services are, (of course) reliant on practical access to
your database! This is normally by remote support, database upload or
posting a CD. You will be responsible for arranging access or delivery.
