I presented a webcast on Wednesday on SQL Server Consolidation. As with many of my sessions (both physical and virtual), I like to ask several questions. This is NOT scientific, but it is anecdotal.
Poll Question #1: Do you have SQL Server 2000 STILL running in production in your organization today? YES = 70%, NO = 27%, UNSURE = 3%
Poll Question #2: Which Version of SQL is most prevalent today in your organization? 2005 = 60%, 2000 = 38%, Unsure = 1.8%, 2008 = .2%
As one would expect, the numbers continue to trend downward for SQL Server 2000, but I am still amazed at how widespread it is at 70%!
SQL Server 2000 is a fine data platform, but 2005/2008 is better. Most of the SQL Server 2000 that I see running out in the "wild" is due to a third party vendor who has not invested in upgrading the back-end and does not support running the DB in '80' compatibility mode or they also require a client-side upgrade which could be a huge cost for customers. Are ISVs the big road block to moving away from SQL Server 2000?