Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Best text book for a first course in database, 02 Oct 2008
I first used this book alot (second edition) when I had to teach a course to HNC and HND students at South East Essex college in 1999. It it the main book I used to put together my notes

Generally an excellent text-book. It doesn't quite carry the clout or precision of C. J Dates book on database systems, but it is far more practical. Not only are the explanations simpler, but there are more practical examples. Also because it is a newer book it is a little more up-to date. The fact that it includes examples in ACCESS as well is an added bonus for teachers and students who have no choice but to use ACCESS.

Certainly the best text for students at the HNC/HND level.


Good student textbook maybe..., 18 Dec 2005
I'll keep this short and sweet: while this may be a good textbook to use when on a database course (and I mean one for full-time students who have yet to enter the world of work) this is definitively no use to those requiring a practical manual that will help you to solve a real-world problem or implement a real-world database solution. I don't think it strives to be the latter and doesn't stake a claim to be such a work but the point needs to be made to ensure people do not purchase it under the assumption that it is something that it certainly is not.
If you want a hands-on, useful SQL primer, go for Ben Forta's "SQL in 10 minutes", or for a practical how-to book on starting out in database creation, try out George Hepworth's "Grover Park George On Access": what they lack in terms of relational calculus (find this in "Database Systems"!) they make up for in teaching you stuff you can actually use. You'll also save yourself a lot of cash.

Very good course book, 08 Feb 2005
This book is well written and aimed at those with little or no prior knowledge of databases (e.g. undergraduates). It goes from conceptual design right down to low level topics. I think the main strength of this book lies in its excellent examples. There are several case studies which are used very well to show practical examples of concepts described. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a text book on databases.

Database Systems - a student's view, 10 Mar 2004
For the most part, I found this book excellent. The text explanations are clear, thorough and easy to follow, and I would thoroughly recommend it on this basis.

The exercises for the chapters, however, are very poorly written. One or two questions in each of the exercises we have encountered so far in my class have been essentially meaningless, so if you are a teacher looking to set this text for a course, beware! Make sure that you read through and correct any ambiguous questions before you set them for your students.

To give an example, one question asks the student to write a SQL query to calculate "the average number of bookings for each hotel in August." Not the average number of bookings per night for each hotel in August, or the average number of bookings in August across all hotels, but essentially a figure which is not actually an average. Rather annoying.

But if you won't be following the exercises slavishly, this book is otherwise worth every penny.

excellent for all levels of SQL, 26 Jun 2003
This book was the recommended title for my second year university SQL module. I used it a s a complete newbie to SQL and found it incredibly helpful both at a basic descriptional level as well as at advanced level as I progressed. Focus is well split between essential coceptual/logical design, normalisation etc as well as actual code syntax. Absolutely essential reference for anyone using or considering using SQL (includes DBMS specific instructions too for MS Access and Oracle for example as well).

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Best text book for a first course in database, 02 Oct 2008
I first used this book alot (second edition) when I had to teach a course to HNC and HND students at South East Essex college in 1999. It it the main book I used to put together my notes

Generally an excellent text-book. It doesn't quite carry the clout or precision of C. J Dates book on database systems, but it is far more practical. Not only are the explanations simpler, but there are more practical examples. Also because it is a newer book it is a little more up-to date. The fact that it includes examples in ACCESS as well is an added bonus for teachers and students who have no choice but to use ACCESS.

Certainly the best text for students at the HNC/HND level.


Good student textbook maybe..., 18 Dec 2005
I'll keep this short and sweet: while this may be a good textbook to use when on a database course (and I mean one for full-time students who have yet to enter the world of work) this is definitively no use to those requiring a practical manual that will help you to solve a real-world problem or implement a real-world database solution. I don't think it strives to be the latter and doesn't stake a claim to be such a work but the point needs to be made to ensure people do not purchase it under the assumption that it is something that it certainly is not.
If you want a hands-on, useful SQL primer, go for Ben Forta's "SQL in 10 minutes", or for a practical how-to book on starting out in database creation, try out George Hepworth's "Grover Park George On Access": what they lack in terms of relational calculus (find this in "Database Systems"!) they make up for in teaching you stuff you can actually use. You'll also save yourself a lot of cash.

Very good course book, 08 Feb 2005
This book is well written and aimed at those with little or no prior knowledge of databases (e.g. undergraduates). It goes from conceptual design right down to low level topics. I think the main strength of this book lies in its excellent examples. There are several case studies which are used very well to show practical examples of concepts described. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a text book on databases.

Database Systems - a student's view, 10 Mar 2004
For the most part, I found this book excellent. The text explanations are clear, thorough and easy to follow, and I would thoroughly recommend it on this basis.

The exercises for the chapters, however, are very poorly written. One or two questions in each of the exercises we have encountered so far in my class have been essentially meaningless, so if you are a teacher looking to set this text for a course, beware! Make sure that you read through and correct any ambiguous questions before you set them for your students.

To give an example, one question asks the student to write a SQL query to calculate "the average number of bookings for each hotel in August." Not the average number of bookings per night for each hotel in August, or the average number of bookings in August across all hotels, but essentially a figure which is not actually an average. Rather annoying.

But if you won't be following the exercises slavishly, this book is otherwise worth every penny.

excellent for all levels of SQL, 26 Jun 2003
This book was the recommended title for my second year university SQL module. I used it a s a complete newbie to SQL and found it incredibly helpful both at a basic descriptional level as well as at advanced level as I progressed. Focus is well split between essential coceptual/logical design, normalisation etc as well as actual code syntax. Absolutely essential reference for anyone using or considering using SQL (includes DBMS specific instructions too for MS Access and Oracle for example as well).

Great book for getting started, 02 Mar 2006
Coming to access as a complete beginner I found this book incredibly useful, all the steps are clearly presented, and you can skip backwards and forwards through the book allowing you to quickly build your own database rather than having to plod through a strict tutorial. You will not find much theory in here - mainly practical how-to's.

This book is for beginners, and its a great start.

Excellent instructions, 15 Apr 2005
Ok so access is a little difficult to get you head around sometimes!!! But this book is written by a woman who understands that and puts it in plain english instead of computer jargon.

There are simple instructions, diagrams (pictures, so you can make sure what you are looking at is the same as what is in the book) and some very useful tips. I found that this was one of the better books that i have purchased in relation to Access (and i have brought a few) and would recommend it to anyone who wishes to learn more about this microsoft programme.

The book itself tells you everything in relation to creating a database including doing reports, changing items etc.

Well if you do decide to purchase this book i hope it helps you out as much as it helped me!

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Best text book for a first course in database, 02 Oct 2008
I first used this book alot (second edition) when I had to teach a course to HNC and HND students at South East Essex college in 1999. It it the main book I used to put together my notes

Generally an excellent text-book. It doesn't quite carry the clout or precision of C. J Dates book on database systems, but it is far more practical. Not only are the explanations simpler, but there are more practical examples. Also because it is a newer book it is a little more up-to date. The fact that it includes examples in ACCESS as well is an added bonus for teachers and students who have no choice but to use ACCESS.

Certainly the best text for students at the HNC/HND level.


Good student textbook maybe..., 18 Dec 2005
I'll keep this short and sweet: while this may be a good textbook to use when on a database course (and I mean one for full-time students who have yet to enter the world of work) this is definitively no use to those requiring a practical manual that will help you to solve a real-world problem or implement a real-world database solution. I don't think it strives to be the latter and doesn't stake a claim to be such a work but the point needs to be made to ensure people do not purchase it under the assumption that it is something that it certainly is not.
If you want a hands-on, useful SQL primer, go for Ben Forta's "SQL in 10 minutes", or for a practical how-to book on starting out in database creation, try out George Hepworth's "Grover Park George On Access": what they lack in terms of relational calculus (find this in "Database Systems"!) they make up for in teaching you stuff you can actually use. You'll also save yourself a lot of cash.

Very good course book, 08 Feb 2005
This book is well written and aimed at those with little or no prior knowledge of databases (e.g. undergraduates). It goes from conceptual design right down to low level topics. I think the main strength of this book lies in its excellent examples. There are several case studies which are used very well to show practical examples of concepts described. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a text book on databases.

Database Systems - a student's view, 10 Mar 2004
For the most part, I found this book excellent. The text explanations are clear, thorough and easy to follow, and I would thoroughly recommend it on this basis.

The exercises for the chapters, however, are very poorly written. One or two questions in each of the exercises we have encountered so far in my class have been essentially meaningless, so if you are a teacher looking to set this text for a course, beware! Make sure that you read through and correct any ambiguous questions before you set them for your students.

To give an example, one question asks the student to write a SQL query to calculate "the average number of bookings for each hotel in August." Not the average number of bookings per night for each hotel in August, or the average number of bookings in August across all hotels, but essentially a figure which is not actually an average. Rather annoying.

But if you won't be following the exercises slavishly, this book is otherwise worth every penny.

excellent for all levels of SQL, 26 Jun 2003
This book was the recommended title for my second year university SQL module. I used it a s a complete newbie to SQL and found it incredibly helpful both at a basic descriptional level as well as at advanced level as I progressed. Focus is well split between essential coceptual/logical design, normalisation etc as well as actual code syntax. Absolutely essential reference for anyone using or considering using SQL (includes DBMS specific instructions too for MS Access and Oracle for example as well).

Great book for getting started, 02 Mar 2006
Coming to access as a complete beginner I found this book incredibly useful, all the steps are clearly presented, and you can skip backwards and forwards through the book allowing you to quickly build your own database rather than having to plod through a strict tutorial. You will not find much theory in here - mainly practical how-to's.

This book is for beginners, and its a great start.

Excellent instructions, 15 Apr 2005
Ok so access is a little difficult to get you head around sometimes!!! But this book is written by a woman who understands that and puts it in plain english instead of computer jargon.

There are simple instructions, diagrams (pictures, so you can make sure what you are looking at is the same as what is in the book) and some very useful tips. I found that this was one of the better books that i have purchased in relation to Access (and i have brought a few) and would recommend it to anyone who wishes to learn more about this microsoft programme.

The book itself tells you everything in relation to creating a database including doing reports, changing items etc.

Well if you do decide to purchase this book i hope it helps you out as much as it helped me!

The best sql book I've seen., 29 Jun 2008
The book claims its audience ranges from novices to sql experts (who need to use a different sql platform), and I have to agree. Since it explains a lot about set theory, and how sql works, I doubt it will be out-of-date any time soon. The author describes it as a collection of common SQL problems and their solutions, which is true. What really makes this book special is that I find myself working through examples on my home database for fun. I've used SQL since the early 90s (on Oracle) and have not come across such a useful yet enjoyable book before. The only small errata I found was on page 336 (where the mysql subquery needed an alias), so I suspect there may be a few others - there are examples given for the main platforms - Postgre, Oracle, DB2, Sql Server etc.

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Best text book for a first course in database, 02 Oct 2008
I first used this book alot (second edition) when I had to teach a course to HNC and HND students at South East Essex college in 1999. It it the main book I used to put together my notes

Generally an excellent text-book. It doesn't quite carry the clout or precision of C. J Dates book on database systems, but it is far more practical. Not only are the explanations simpler, but there are more practical examples. Also because it is a newer book it is a little more up-to date. The fact that it includes examples in ACCESS as well is an added bonus for teachers and students who have no choice but to use ACCESS.

Certainly the best text for students at the HNC/HND level.


Good student textbook maybe..., 18 Dec 2005
I'll keep this short and sweet: while this may be a good textbook to use when on a database course (and I mean one for full-time students who have yet to enter the world of work) this is definitively no use to those requiring a practical manual that will help you to solve a real-world problem or implement a real-world database solution. I don't think it strives to be the latter and doesn't stake a claim to be such a work but the point needs to be made to ensure people do not purchase it under the assumption that it is something that it certainly is not.
If you want a hands-on, useful SQL primer, go for Ben Forta's "SQL in 10 minutes", or for a practical how-to book on starting out in database creation, try out George Hepworth's "Grover Park George On Access": what they lack in terms of relational calculus (find this in "Database Systems"!) they make up for in teaching you stuff you can actually use. You'll also save yourself a lot of cash.

Very good course book, 08 Feb 2005
This book is well written and aimed at those with little or no prior knowledge of databases (e.g. undergraduates). It goes from conceptual design right down to low level topics. I think the main strength of this book lies in its excellent examples. There are several case studies which are used very well to show practical examples of concepts described. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a text book on databases.

Database Systems - a student's view, 10 Mar 2004
For the most part, I found this book excellent. The text explanations are clear, thorough and easy to follow, and I would thoroughly recommend it on this basis.

The exercises for the chapters, however, are very poorly written. One or two questions in each of the exercises we have encountered so far in my class have been essentially meaningless, so if you are a teacher looking to set this text for a course, beware! Make sure that you read through and correct any ambiguous questions before you set them for your students.

To give an example, one question asks the student to write a SQL query to calculate "the average number of bookings for each hotel in August." Not the average number of bookings per night for each hotel in August, or the average number of bookings in August across all hotels, but essentially a figure which is not actually an average. Rather annoying.

But if you won't be following the exercises slavishly, this book is otherwise worth every penny.

excellent for all levels of SQL, 26 Jun 2003
This book was the recommended title for my second year university SQL module. I used it a s a complete newbie to SQL and found it incredibly helpful both at a basic descriptional level as well as at advanced level as I progressed. Focus is well split between essential coceptual/logical design, normalisation etc as well as actual code syntax. Absolutely essential reference for anyone using or considering using SQL (includes DBMS specific instructions too for MS Access and Oracle for example as well).

Great book for getting started, 02 Mar 2006
Coming to access as a complete beginner I found this book incredibly useful, all the steps are clearly presented, and you can skip backwards and forwards through the book allowing you to quickly build your own database rather than having to plod through a strict tutorial. You will not find much theory in here - mainly practical how-to's.

This book is for beginners, and its a great start.

Excellent instructions, 15 Apr 2005
Ok so access is a little difficult to get you head around sometimes!!! But this book is written by a woman who understands that and puts it in plain english instead of computer jargon.

There are simple instructions, diagrams (pictures, so you can make sure what you are looking at is the same as what is in the book) and some very useful tips. I found that this was one of the better books that i have purchased in relation to Access (and i have brought a few) and would recommend it to anyone who wishes to learn more about this microsoft programme.

The book itself tells you everything in relation to creating a database including doing reports, changing items etc.

Well if you do decide to purchase this book i hope it helps you out as much as it helped me!

The best sql book I've seen., 29 Jun 2008
The book claims its audience ranges from novices to sql experts (who need to use a different sql platform), and I have to agree. Since it explains a lot about set theory, and how sql works, I doubt it will be out-of-date any time soon. The author describes it as a collection of common SQL problems and their solutions, which is true. What really makes this book special is that I find myself working through examples on my home database for fun. I've used SQL since the early 90s (on Oracle) and have not come across such a useful yet enjoyable book before. The only small errata I found was on page 336 (where the mysql subquery needed an alias), so I suspect there may be a few others - there are examples given for the main platforms - Postgre, Oracle, DB2, Sql Server etc.

Does Exactly What It Says On The Tin, 14 May 2008
A few pages past the table of contents, I had solved two issues that had been bugging me since my last install. It was pretty minor stuff, but could I as heck find the answers online. It just shows what research, presentation, and quality control can achieve. So, another score for books over bytes.

The layout is uncluttered, and you can usually get the gist without reading through pages of preamble and exposition. The examples are practical and adaptable (no long and complex routines found on some sites) so they can almost be cut and pasted into your own applications. As your applications develop, there's always something else you can add.

The only downside is that it's a book - a few mods to MySQL and you might have to fork out for the next revision. Still, I should have got my money's worth by then.

Teaches you SQL, 31 Mar 2006
Explains by example so many common queries you'll be able to solve a wide variety of problems instantly. SQL is a deceptively deep language and getting to grips with this small army of queries gives you the basics to build on.

Easy reading and sensible examples. Some omissions (insert) but it's not the complex stuff - that part is really taught well.

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Best text book for a first course in database, 02 Oct 2008
I first used this book alot (second edition) when I had to teach a course to HNC and HND students at South East Essex college in 1999. It it the main book I used to put together my notes

Generally an excellent text-book. It doesn't quite carry the clout or precision of C. J Dates book on database systems, but it is far more practical. Not only are the explanations simpler, but there are more practical examples. Also because it is a newer book it is a little more up-to date. The fact that it includes examples in ACCESS as well is an added bonus for teachers and students who have no choice but to use ACCESS.

Certainly the best text for students at the HNC/HND level.


Good student textbook maybe..., 18 Dec 2005
I'll keep this short and sweet: while this may be a good textbook to use when on a database course (and I mean one for full-time students who have yet to enter the world of work) this is definitively no use to those requiring a practical manual that will help you to solve a real-world problem or implement a real-world database solution. I don't think it strives to be the latter and doesn't stake a claim to be such a work but the point needs to be made to ensure people do not purchase it under the assumption that it is something that it certainly is not.
If you want a hands-on, useful SQL primer, go for Ben Forta's "SQL in 10 minutes", or for a practical how-to book on starting out in database creation, try out George Hepworth's "Grover Park George On Access": what they lack in terms of relational calculus (find this in "Database Systems"!) they make up for in teaching you stuff you can actually use. You'll also save yourself a lot of cash.

Very good course book, 08 Feb 2005
This book is well written and aimed at those with little or no prior knowledge of databases (e.g. undergraduates). It goes from conceptual design right down to low level topics. I think the main strength of this book lies in its excellent examples. There are several case studies which are used very well to show practical examples of concepts described. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a text book on databases.

Database Systems - a student's view, 10 Mar 2004
For the most part, I found this book excellent. The text explanations are clear, thorough and easy to follow, and I would thoroughly recommend it on this basis.

The exercises for the chapters, however, are very poorly written. One or two questions in each of the exercises we have encountered so far in my class have been essentially meaningless, so if you are a teacher looking to set this text for a course, beware! Make sure that you read through and correct any ambiguous questions before you set them for your students.

To give an example, one question asks the student to write a SQL query to calculate "the average number of bookings for each hotel in August." Not the average number of bookings per night for each hotel in August, or the average number of bookings in August across all hotels, but essentially a figure which is not actually an average. Rather annoying.

But if you won't be following the exercises slavishly, this book is otherwise worth every penny.

excellent for all levels of SQL, 26 Jun 2003
This book was the recommended title for my second year university SQL module. I used it a s a complete newbie to SQL and found it incredibly helpful both at a basic descriptional level as well as at advanced level as I progressed. Focus is well split between essential coceptual/logical design, normalisation etc as well as actual code syntax. Absolutely essential reference for anyone using or considering using SQL (includes DBMS specific instructions too for MS Access and Oracle for example as well).

Great book for getting started, 02 Mar 2006
Coming to access as a complete beginner I found this book incredibly useful, all the steps are clearly presented, and you can skip backwards and forwards through the book allowing you to quickly build your own database rather than having to plod through a strict tutorial. You will not find much theory in here - mainly practical how-to's.

This book is for beginners, and its a great start.

Excellent instructions, 15 Apr 2005
Ok so access is a little difficult to get you head around sometimes!!! But this book is written by a woman who understands that and puts it in plain english instead of computer jargon.

There are simple instructions, diagrams (pictures, so you can make sure what you are looking at is the same as what is in the book) and some very useful tips. I found that this was one of the better books that i have purchased in relation to Access (and i have brought a few) and would recommend it to anyone who wishes to learn more about this microsoft programme.

The book itself tells you everything in relation to creating a database including doing reports, changing items etc.

Well if you do decide to purchase this book i hope it helps you out as much as it helped me!

The best sql book I've seen., 29 Jun 2008
The book claims its audience ranges from novices to sql experts (who need to use a different sql platform), and I have to agree. Since it explains a lot about set theory, and how sql works, I doubt it will be out-of-date any time soon. The author describes it as a collection of common SQL problems and their solutions, which is true. What really makes this book special is that I find myself working through examples on my home database for fun. I've used SQL since the early 90s (on Oracle) and have not come across such a useful yet enjoyable book before. The only small errata I found was on page 336 (where the mysql subquery needed an alias), so I suspect there may be a few others - there are examples given for the main platforms - Postgre, Oracle, DB2, Sql Server etc.

Does Exactly What It Says On The Tin, 14 May 2008
A few pages past the table of contents, I had solved two issues that had been bugging me since my last install. It was pretty minor stuff, but could I as heck find the answers online. It just shows what research, presentation, and quality control can achieve. So, another score for books over bytes.

The layout is uncluttered, and you can usually get the gist without reading through pages of preamble and exposition. The examples are practical and adaptable (no long and complex routines found on some sites) so they can almost be cut and pasted into your own applications. As your applications develop, there's always something else you can add.

The only downside is that it's a book - a few mods to MySQL and you might have to fork out for the next revision. Still, I should have got my money's worth by then.

Teaches you SQL, 31 Mar 2006
Explains by example so many common queries you'll be able to solve a wide variety of problems instantly. SQL is a deceptively deep language and getting to grips with this small army of queries gives you the basics to build on.

Easy reading and sensible examples. Some omissions (insert) but it's not the complex stuff - that part is really taught well.

Brilliantly covers the BI development lifecycle., 15 Jun 2008
I don't normally enjoy reading technical IT books, but this one was difficult to put down. It covers the whole of the Business Intellegence lifecycle using Microsoft products (namely SQL Server 2005, Inegration Services, Analysis Services and Reporting Services) to build a Kimball Dimensional model data warehouse.

The initial chapters cover the design cycle and reinforce the need to drive the data warehouse design from properly researched client requirements.

It then goes on to implement the design through an ETL process using SQL Server Integration Services. The coverage is complete with particular attention to handling Type 1 and 2 data changes. The Slowly Changing Dimension Task is well described and provokes significant thought about warehouse design.

Designing and building the OLAP database follows with 3 chapters dedicated to Business Intelligence applications, including comprehensive coverage of the role of Reporting Services and Data Mining Modeling. I have found these 3 chapters particularly useful in deciding how to deliver the client side analysis tools.

The final section explains how to setup security, how to deploy your solution, how to manage operations and maintenance and, finally, how to implement Real-Time Business Intelligence in the traditional data warehouse.

A number of tools are available from the books web site, including a well written and fully working (on SQL Server 2005 - needs some small changes for SQL 2008 because the underlying AdventureWorks database is changed in SQL 2008) SSIS package.

This is not a regurgitation of Books On Line, nor is it a step by step 'How To' guide to using Microsoft SQL Server. What it does, and does it brilliantly, is describe in detail the processes that you will need to go through to build a complete working Business Intelligence solution.

It is clear that the authors are proper experts in their field and that many years of experience have been distilled into this book. This is the only one you will need.


Covers everything, 13 Nov 2006
A very well written book covering all of the aspects of designing, building and deploying a datwarehouse using the Microsoft toolset.

Some of the sections are a little brief, and I'd reccomend getting supporting material on MDX and Report Services if these technologies are to be used, as the sections in this (admittedly huge) book are a little light.

The only thing it doesn't mention are some of the glaring defects in Microsofts product, but we can hardly blame the authors for that !

Excellent Book a Real Must to Have, 23 Nov 2007
This is a really good book, clear and precise. It makes even the difficult tasks look easy!

Good introduction and great value for money., 10 Mar 2004
I have just upgraded from Access 97 to Access to 2003 and I was looking for something new to guide me through the changes. I was suprised that I walked out of the bookshop with this rather than one of the usual suspects. At 766 pages long this book describes itself as a desktop reference and nine books in one. I am not sure I agree completely with those statements. However it goes much further than the normal "Dummies" series by covering Access in impressive detail without losing the clarity which makes the series deservedly popular. This is a really good introduction to Access and, when combined with the price, I would highly recommend it for new starters.

A definite read for mysql developers, 30 Dec 2008
This book is not for beginners! This book is aimed at experienced developers who wish to take their mysql skills to the next level.

If you think you know it all, then you probably dont and this book is worth every penny! It will teach you how to choose the correct engine, optimise & bench mark your work to make sure you get the best out of your system. Its not easy and there is plenty to take in.

Excellent book - I gave it 4/5 because I felt that it went into too much details in some unimportant areas and skimmed over other areas that I thought were more important - however, this is probably just a personal preference. So might deserve closer to 4.8/5 :)

Still the de-facto reference for serious use of MySQL IMHO, 19 Dec 2008
The first edition of this book was a real find - at last a non-introductory book about MySQL that covers its use in more serious applications, the pros and cons of the variety of DB engines and coverage of other enterprise issues like backup and replication.

4yrs on after the 1st edition I was delighted to see an updated version of this book. The new book is more than double the thickness of the original, covering MySQL right up to v5.1. The good news is that the high density of detailed useful information packed into the original book has been maintained in this edition.

You really get the sense the authors know MySQL like the back of their hands, both in theory and practice and are passionate about getting their knowledge across in the book to help in your real-world applications.

This book is not for beginners learning databases, MySQL or SQL, but must surely be the de-facto reference for performance and enterprise use of MySQL.

Good grounding, 16 Dec 2008
I found this to be one of the best written IT books I have come across.
A potentially complex subject is covered with clarity of thought and simplicity of expression. You can tell that the authors have extensive experience not only of data warehousing, but of teaching its concepts to others.
This books covers general principles, not language specifics.


The best book on Data Warehousing. Full Stop., 04 Sep 2008
I bought the First Edition of this book over ten years ago, and it helped demystify some of my preconceptions about Data Warehousing. I since buillt upon my experience, along with several highly successful, highly performant warehouse solutions in the Telecoms, Public Services and Banking industries.

In summary - this book works.

One of it's greatest strengths is that it is readable, and easily understood - despite the Initially unusual design techniques. Anyone with database design experience should have no problem following the concepts.

After an initial chapter on the "basics dimensional design" it then explores the subject chapter by chapter using "case studies". You're bound to find one industry you're familiar with, the subjects include Retail Sales, Inventory, Order Processing, HR and Financial Services.

Each case study, explores the fundamentals in further detail, and introduces an additional concept for which a solution is provided.

It's far from a "cook-book" approach, but both myself and colleagues (I've kept in touch with two other people who swear by Ralph Kimball and the toolkit), have relied upon it for solutions through the years.

Take for example, the problem of modling a complex hierarchy of business units which can (in theory) have any number of levels, but users want to analyse data for "Ultimate Parent Companies" or for all the subsidiaries of a given company. Ralph has a solution.

In summary, if you're working in the Business Intelligence industry, as a designer, architect or even an intested project manager - you should understand Dimensional Design techniques, and this is the book the explain them.

Ironically, an alternative book The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data, is suitable if either you're an ETL developer or simply want a good overview of the techniques. Also co-authored by Ralph Kimball, it provides a succinct overview of Dimensional Design along with a description of the thorny issue of ETL.


A good book, 06 Nov 2007
1. I recommend this book for a beginner and advanced users for clear understanding on dimensional modelling.
2. I am happy to say, I received a replacement book since my first order was not delivered to me.



The Bible for starting a Data Warehouse project, 22 Sep 2007
Our organisation was establishing a BI competence centre. This book along with the others in the series offered all the guidance needed to make sense of the terminology - and more importantly gave real-life worked examples rather than just theory. We bought it for everyone on the team.

A must have, 04 Dec 2006
I picked this up about 18 months ago as a primer, and it's still helping me today as I continue to develop new datawarehouse designs. Each time I have to do something for the first time, there's usually a chapter in the book for it. I feel a lot more comfortable having it on my desk!!

Best text book for a first course in database, 02 Oct 2008
I first used this book alot (second edition) when I had to teach a course to HNC and HND students at South East Essex college in 1999. It it the main book I used to put together my notes

Generally an excellent text-book. It doesn't quite carry the clout or precision of C. J Dates book on database systems, but it is far more practical. Not only are the explanations simpler, but there are more practical examples. Also because it is a newer book it is a little more up-to date. The fact that it includes examples in ACCESS as well is an added bonus for teachers and students who have no choice but to use ACCESS.

Certainly the best text for students at the HNC/HND level.


Good student textbook maybe..., 18 Dec 2005
I'll keep this short and sweet: while this may be a good textbook to use when on a database course (and I mean one for full-time students who have yet to enter the world of work) this is definitively no use to those requiring a practical manual that will help you to solve a real-world problem or implement a real-world database solution. I don't think it strives to be the latter and doesn't stake a claim to be such a work but the point needs to be made to ensure people do not purchase it under the assumption that it is something that it certainly is not.
If you want a hands-on, useful SQL primer, go for Ben Forta's "SQL in 10 minutes", or for a practical how-to book on starting out in database creation, try out George Hepworth's "Grover Park George On Access": what they lack in terms of relational calculus (find this in "Database Systems"!) they make up for in teaching you stuff you can actually use. You'll also save yourself a lot of cash.

Very good course book, 08 Feb 2005
This book is well written and aimed at those with little or no prior knowledge of databases (e.g. undergraduates). It goes from conceptual design right down to low level topics. I think the main strength of this book lies in its excellent examples. There are several case studies which are used very well to show practical examples of concepts described. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a text book on databases.

Database Systems - a student's view, 10 Mar 2004
For the most part, I found this book excellent. The text explanations are clear, thorough and easy to follow, and I would thoroughly recommend it on this basis.

The exercises for the chapters, however, are very poorly written. One or two questions in each of the exercises we have encountered so far in my class have been essentially meaningless, so if you are a teacher looking to set this text for a course, beware! Make sure that you read through and correct any ambiguous questions before you set them for your students.

To give an example, one question asks the student to write a SQL query to calculate "the average number of bookings for each hotel in August." Not the average number of bookings per night for each hotel in August, or the average number of bookings in August across all hotels, but essentially a figure which is not actually an average. Rather annoying.

But if you won't be following the exercises slavishly, this book is otherwise worth every penny.

excellent for all levels of SQL, 26 Jun 2003
This book was the recommended title for my second year university SQL module. I used it a s a complete newbie to SQL and found it incredibly helpful both at a basic descriptional level as well as at advanced level as I progressed. Focus is well split between essential coceptual/logical design, normalisation etc as well as actual code syntax. Absolutely essential reference for anyone using or considering using SQL (includes DBMS specific instructions too for MS Access and Oracle for example as well).

Great book for getting started, 02 Mar 2006
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