https://www.joincosmosdb.com/

Microsoft has greatly improved the Cosmos DB documentation making it much easier to learn and get started. Check it out at https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/cosmos-db/

Microsoft has a new set of on demand webinars to teach you how to use Azure Cosmos DB. Register for them here. You can download the latest version of the Cosmos DB emulator from here. I like it because it can be used offline (great way to learn on those long airplane trips) and doesn’t occur any Azure usage charges since it is a local application.

SQL Server Replication usually works just fine when testing in a development environment where there’s low latency and high bandwidth. Real world conditions aren’t always like that. I’ve published instructions on how to use the free WANem network emulator to simulate poor network conditions such as when SQL Server has to replicate over a satellite ...

To install PolyBase on SQL Server 2016 or 2917, there is a dependency on the Oracle Java Runtime Environment (JRE). Oracle made a breaking change to the JRE from version 8 to 9. I published a workaround that is available here.

While the Cosmos DB emulator is a great way to learn Cosmos DB, it’s better to work directly with the full Cosmos DB service in Microsoft Azure. Previously this was a barrier to learning for many people. Now you can get 12 months of free access to Cosmos DB, Azure SQL Database, Linux and Windows virtual machines, and certain types of storage. ...

Sign up for the new edX course Developing Planet-Scale Applications in Azure Cosmos DB at https://www.edx.org/course/developing-planet-scale-applications-microsoft-dat237x.

The great successes in hurricane Harvey relief have often come from people focusing on doing the right thing. I don't think the Cajun Navy https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cajun_Navy worries about insurance.

After working as a registered nurse and volunteer firefighter during hurricane Harvey, I came up with ideas on how Uber, Lyft, and Waze could help. See my article on LinkedIn here.

Many people are staying in shelters after being displaced by the flooding caused by hurricane Harvey. There were requests made for mental health professionals to go to shelters and talk to people who need help. People with professional credentials were willing to help. Floodwaters prevented some of the willing and qualified to be able to get to ...