System i Developer, organizers of the RPG & DB2 Summit, has announced a new technical conference—DB2 for i Directions—designed for developers, database engineers, DBAs and software providers who want to learn new ways to leverage DB2 for i and SQL. Scheduled for June 20-23 at the IBM Innovations Center in Waltham, Mass., DB2 for i Directions will focus on four critical areas: the IBM i’s database capabilities, SQL programming techniques, performance management and query and reporting methods. 

“As the foundation of all of your IBM i applications, DB2 plays a key role in the success of your IT projects,” says Skip Marchesani, System i Developer partner and noted SQL guru. “Whether you are modernizing your applications, enhancing your reporting and business intelligence, handling sensitive data, storing images or even dealing with staffing shortages—skillful use of SQL and DB2 makes it all easier." 

The heart of the DB2 for i Directions conference comprises two days of classroom education on June 21–22, led by Marchesani and three prominent DB2/SQL experts from IBM’s DB2 for i Center of Excellence: Mike Cain, Kent Milligan and Gene Cobb. Each day features two tracks of sessions detailing the latest in DB2 and SQL tips, techniques and strategies. On Monday, June 20, Marchesani leads an optional hands-on workshop on SQL basics. On Thursday, June 23, Cain leads a second optional workshop on the IBM i’s built-in SQL Performance Tools. 

According to Cain, it is no longer just about storing and processing data—it's all about turning data into usable business information effectively and efficiently. 

“For years, the AS/400, iSeries and now IBM i have been known for the ease in which data-centric business problems can solved,” he says. “To continue reaping benefits from the latest features and functions within DB2 for i, the DBA, the programmer, the engineer and the solution provider must stay informed and up-to-date. Attending the new DB2 for i Directions conference is the best way to do just that. The value derived from attending a few days of high tech and fast paced sessions will surely pay dividends for months to come. I recommend you take full advantage of this unique opportunity.” 

The RPG & DB2 Summit is produced by System i Developer. It is sponsored by three leading media organizations, IBM Systems Magazine, System iNetwork and MC Press Online, and database design and modeling specialist Resolution Xcase. 

For more information on attending the DB2 for i Directions conference, visit www.systemideveloper.com, email registration@systemideveloper.com or call 802-472-3941 (toll-free 866-716-5409).