James Kelly

I’ve always enjoyed working with data and it gives me great satisfaction when I can organize data and retrieve datasets quickly and efficiently regardless of the DBMS I am using.

I am most familiar with MS SQL Server, and am just as comfortable with MYSQL. Two databases that you may notice are missing from the list below are PostgreSQL and FoxPro.

The reason for this is quite simple: I’ve never worked with them. I have looked at FoxPro briefly and I feel I can be relatively confident when I say that should I ever be required to work with either of them in the future, I could come up to speed quickly.

Quickly to me means a couple of days (max, more likely a couple of hours) studying the fundamentals to be able to confidently use them and streamline input and output, with a level of true proficiency developing within 5 to 10 days.

MS SQL Server is probably my favorite DBMS. I have over 6 years experience working with SQL Server and I am extremely comfortable with it.

I am proficient not only with development concepts but also administrative and maintenance concepts. I am adept with Data Transformation Services (DTS) and have used it for a myriad of purposes from merging heterogenous data sources to routine backup applications.

I’ve used MSDE (now SQL Server 2005 Express Edition) for web applications as well as stand-alone desktop applications and when possible will use it instead of other methods.

It is important to note however that I am not a Microsoft junky. I fully embrace other technologies (such as MYSQL) when it is logical to do so.

I am currently studying SQL Server 2005 concepts since DTS is no longer used and coming up to speed with SQL Server Business Intelligence, Management Studio, and Analysis Services.

I’ve been using MYSQL for going on 3 years. I love how portable it is and the concepts I’ve learned regarding other databases transferred very nicely allowing me to run with MYSQL in less than a day.

I have used MYSQL primarily for web applications and most of my experience is with 4.x. I have used MYSQL 5 and can’t wait for it to become mainstream. It’s my opinion that where MYSQL 4 is a fully functional database, 5 comes much closer to being what my opinion of a professional DBMS is.

I have used MS Access for many purposes throughout the years and have used it successfully to drive web properties as well as desktop applications. I avoid using it for most applications if I can use a SQL server solution, however, there are times where it just isn’t feasible, and that’s where Access truly shines for Microsoft-centric solutions.

I am proficient with VBScript so I can create, work with, and support Access enabled desktop solutions when necessary.

This was the platform that I was introduced to databases on. I don’t miss it except perhaps in a nostalgic way.

One of the first professional grade applications I created used DBase IV as the database with Quattro Pro (an antiquated spreadsheet program) thrown in for good measure.

The application was a custom-built data repository and research platform for a doctor who specialized in surgical operations regarding obesity. It was imperative that the data be entered, stored, and retrieved accurately with the ability to rearrange the data quickly and easily. This application was definitely a first-of-its kind solution that both the doctor and I could be proud of.