This document provides an introduction to the MERGE statement in SQL Server 2008. It includes a basic overview of the logic and syntax of the MERGE statement, demonstrates its use with an example, and discusses how it can help solve complex data warehouse population problems more easily compared to traditional ETL approaches. The document concludes by directing the reader to online resources for learning more about SQL Server 2008 and the author.

1. A quick introduction to the new Merge Keyword in SQL 2008

2. Basic logic behind the Merge Keyword Breakdown the Syntax Lets see it in action Q & A Next Steps

3. Senior Systems Designer for Cybner Computer Solutions who specialise in Microsoft Dynamics CRM Implementation & Integration > 10 Years experience in the IT industry

4. Basic Upsert process Insert New Rows Update Existing Rows Delete removed Rows

5. [ WITH <common_table_expression> [,...n] ] MERGE [ TOP ( expression ) [ PERCENT ] ] [ INTO ] target_table [ [ AS ] table_alias ] [ WITH ( <merge_hint> ) ] USING <table_source> ON <search_condition> [ WHEN MATCHED [ AND <search_condition> ] THEN <merge_matched> ] [ WHEN [TARGET] NOT MATCHED [ AND <search_condition> ] THEN <merge_not_matched> ] [ WHEN SOURCE NOT MATCHED [ AND <search_condition> ] THEN <merge_ matched> ] <output_clause> [ OPTION ( <query_hint> [ ,...n ] ) ] ;

6. MERGE DESTINATION USING (This Source Data) ON this join When Matched (exists in both tables) Do Something – probably Update When Not Matched (A new record) Do Something like Insert When Source Not Matched (Row has been deleted from source table) Do Something like Delete from Destination OUTPUT ;

7. Solves some of the complex problems with populating a data warehouse No knowledge of SSIS is needed Cleaner code Easy way to log the results of the Merge statement Makes it easier to create data warehouses which in turn can provide a basis for better business intelligence & analysis

8. Over to you…

9. Best Resources for SQL 2008 resources: Google!!! Search what you are trying to do http://www.sqlservercentral.com/ http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb522522(SQL.100).aspx Download the latest CTP & Start Playing!! More info on me: http://blog.cybner.com.au/ http://www.twitter.com/ceibner