Microsoft has released today SQL Server 2008 R2 CTP1 (formerly known as Kilimanjaro) to the general public after it was available for two days already to TechNet and MSDN subscribers.Except for adding more features to help DBAs and developers work against the databases, SQL Server 2008 R2 CTP1also offers Report Builder 3.0. Yes, it’s true, you just blinked and already Microsoft has released a new version to Report Builder. The enhanced visualization from Dundas gages and charts is still there and the added bonus is that Report Builder 3.0 now offers support to geospatial visualization (maps) and faster report processing.The official blog is offering you to sign up to be one of the SQL Server 2008 R2 Customer Evidence program.
In the meanwhile you can download SQL Server 2008 R2 CTP1 from the official site, and if you encounter any problems please refer to the SQL Server 2008 R2 Setup and Upgrade forum.
Via Dan English’s blog, I’ve learned that Pass is offering a day of BI webinars for free! The Pass Convention itself is scheduled for November in Seattle. As this year there will no dedicated BI conference from Microsoft, Pass is the conference for you to get updated on all your BI needs. This is also why I was very happy to hear they’re also offering a day of free sessions with very well known speakers.
The sessions are mostly SQL Server 2008 oriented, but I believe you’ll find more than enough information there even if you’re using SQL Server 2005. Session topics vary from SSIS, SSAS, SSRS and more. Though the session time is given for GMT, when you register for the sessions they will be sent to your Outlook calendar with the correct time in your region. The site doesn’t specify if the sessions will be available afterwards for download.
So go check out the 24 hours of free SQL Server training Pass is offering you – you’re bound to find something you like.