Article The Cost Benefits of a SQL Server Migration
By Howard M Cohen / 6 Mar 2017 / Topics: Software
One big hesitation from organizations that are considering migrating from their current database management platform to Microsoft SQL Server is that data is expensive in every aspect — from collecting and storing it to managing and analyzing it.
Additionally, when an enterprise data platform works well enough, many businesses get comfortable. They want to stick with what they’ve already invested in and are familiar with. And, they certainly don’t want to put time and development resources into a complicated transition.
If you’re currently toying with the idea of transitioning to SQL Server 2016, ask yourself, “Is my current data platform working the way I want it to work?”
If your reluctance in exploring something new lies mainly in cost, we understand. Of course, budget plays a huge role in any IT decision. However, there are some important cost benefits that come with SQL Server 2016. These differences impact more than your budget; they impact your ease of use, your feature set and the way you do business.
A la carte vs. all-in with the new SQL Server
All-inclusive anything is easy. For example, few people genuinely enjoy car shopping. Who wants to haggle over whether floor mats or air conditioning are included in the sale price? On the other hand, purchasing a car from a dealer where you know that what you see — and expect — is what you get, well, it’s an entirely different experience. That’s the kind of positive and reliable experience you’ll get with SQL Server 2016.
Many competing database platforms promote more of an a la carte style of procurement. Interested in bolstering your security capabilities? You will have to tack that on as another line item on your invoice. Are you also pursuing business intelligence tools? You will have to add that on too.
One of the most appealing aspects of the new SQL Server is that it comes with nearly everything built in, including enhanced in-memory Online Transaction Processing (OLTP) for faster queries, more security options to protect your data, capabilities to create high-availability solutions, and improved database engine, broad data access, expanded analytics, reporting services and more.
Store your data in the cloud.
SQL Server 2016 gives organizations the opportunity to “stretch” their data from an on-premise database solution into the Microsoft Azure cloud. This capability opens the door for significant cost savings, given that cloud storage is generally far cheaper than managing and storing data behind a firewall.
Need more incentive?
Microsoft is so confident in the capabilities of SQL Server 2016 that the company is offering free SQL Server licenses when you transfer your current database to SQL Server.* If you choose to make the switch, you’ll receive services to kick off your migration efforts, including access to demonstrations, tips on deployment and hands-on labs.
Realize even more value with SP1.
If you’re still on the fence about a SQL Server migration, Microsoft has further sweetened the deal with Service Pack 1 (SP1). This is no ordinary update. Just this one patch gives SQL Server users the ability to access most of the Enterprise Edition features, including Row Level Security, dynamic data masking, Always Encrypted, fine grain auditing and more. Essentially, SP1 wipes away most of the differences between each SQL Server edition.
Service Pack 1 is a major, instant upgrade for organizations looking to check off the box on both price and value. This is an important step forward on Microsoft’s end, showing the company’s willingness to invest in arming organizations worldwide with a vast set of programmability features.
Get started with your SQL Server migration.
If you want to cut costs and ensure that your data platform includes must-have features, you should consider SQL Server 2016. Security, in-memory performance and mobile business intelligence all come standard. While every migration requires a certain level of commitment and resources, free SQL Server licenses will make a noticeable boost in your budget.
