I have recently written a couple pieces on how to
tune very large Microsoft SQL-Server databases (for optimal performance and speed, and minimized size - which, go hand in hand). I mainly work with SQL-Server 2000 or SQL-Server 2005 these days, but the techniques I focus on in my first couple articles will apply to most any version of SQL-Server (or, Oracle, DB2, etc. for that matter), since I focus on minimizing physical storage space as the first line of an offense in speed optimization and tuning.
Here are the links to my initial discussions:
I say "initial" discussion, because I plan to continue this series with discussions about all sorts of MS SQL-Server performance tuning and optimization strategies, including things like proper indexing strategies, stored-procedure (Transact SQL) techniques, and much more. But, all of the other SQL Server optimization techniques are dependent upon getting your physical database storage optimized. Period. (note: data normalization is a key part of optimizing physical storage too - so, get familiar with that concept if you are not already).
If you find these useful, and/or want more detail about any aspect of the discussions, just let me know. After helping all sorts of companies tune their massive SQL relational databases, I know one thing is a fact: most huge databases can benefit from a bit of common-sense tuning. So, start by reading these performance tips, and realize some performance benefits right away.
