SQL Server is no longer limited to rows and columns. In this session, we will explore how SQL can work naturally with NoSQL-style data using the binary JSON data type, JSON functions, JSON indexes, computed columns, triggers, and document-focused design patterns. We will look at techniques for querying and shaping JSON documents, handling large documents, responding to document changes, and combining relational structure with flexible document models.

We will also look beyond JSON to SQL Server’s broader semi-structured data support, including XML, Regular Expression support, Fuzzy Search, and other capabilities that help developers build flexible applications without abandoning the database engine they already trust.

1. Understand how SQL Server supports NoSQL-style document patterns using JSON, binary JSON, JSON methods, and JSON indexes.
2. Learn practical techniques for working with documents through computed columns, triggers, large document handling, and hybrid relational-document designs.
3. Explore broader semi-structured data support in SQL Server, including XML, Regular Expressions, Fuzzy Search, and related developer-focused capabilities.