How do you measure your progress as a DBA?

As a database administrator (DBA), you are responsible for managing, securing, and optimizing the data and systems that power your organization. But how do you know if you are doing a good job and improving your skills? In this article, we will explore some ways to measure your progress as a DBA, from setting goals and tracking metrics to seeking feedback and learning new technologies.

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1 Set SMART goals

One of the first steps to measure your progress as a DBA is to set SMART goals. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These criteria help you define what you want to accomplish, how you will measure it, whether it is realistic, why it matters, and when you will do it. For example, a SMART goal for a DBA could be: "Improve the backup and recovery process for the main database by 20% within the next three months by implementing a new tool and documenting the best practices."

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Sunny Kichloo

Database Architect at Nutanix|Ex-Oracle ACE ♠|Database Migration Architect
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COST is one the important factor to look for anything which will help your firm in reducing COST of operations.Any automation which help in reducing operation timeline which in turn will reduce operational cost.This things take time first we have to understand the current business process and how every operational activity is being executed and post that we can work on refining process and increasing productivity.

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2 Track key metrics

Another way to measure your progress as a DBA is to track key metrics that reflect the performance, availability, and security of your databases and systems. Some of the common metrics that DBAs monitor include: uptime, response time, throughput, error rate, backup frequency, restore time, and security incidents. By collecting and analyzing these metrics, you can identify the strengths and weaknesses of your current setup, troubleshoot issues, and optimize your processes. You can also use these metrics to report on your achievements and demonstrate your value to your stakeholders.

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Sunny Kichloo

Database Architect at Nutanix|Ex-Oracle ACE ♠|Database Migration Architect
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There are many areas of database where you can grow your career: 1)Performance:One of the major area where you have to have understanding of current business logic and how your queries are designed to met that logic.You have to understand all component which comes into picture like DB+OS+STORAGE+NETWORK+APPLICATION. 2)HA/DR: Keeping system up is also quite challenging task.DR drill need to be performed based on organisational policies.Also you have to design database so that you met desired RPO and RTO. 3)Database Design:In this role you can evolve more on development front and you can learn more on designing database as per business logic and how to use normalisation to achieve ideal performance

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3 Seek feedback

A third way to measure your progress as a DBA is to seek feedback from your peers, managers, customers, and users. Feedback can help you gain insights into how your work impacts others, what they expect from you, and how you can improve your communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. You can seek feedback by asking specific questions, soliciting suggestions, conducting surveys, or participating in reviews. You should also be open to receiving constructive criticism, acknowledging your mistakes, and implementing changes based on the feedback.

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Sunny Kichloo

Database Architect at Nutanix|Ex-Oracle ACE ♠|Database Migration Architect
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Any feedback whether it is postive and negative you shouldn't take it personally as it is given on professional ground.Do take negative feedback also as a feedback in which you may have to work more.Most important thing is not everything you will do or implement will be perfect and whatever perfect execution cases you have seen in your life will have some failure challenges in the past.So understand failures and work on those skills so that those mistakes are not repeated in the future.

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4 Learn new technologies

A fourth way to measure your progress as a DBA is to learn new technologies that are relevant to your field and industry. Technology is constantly evolving, and as a DBA, you need to keep up with the latest trends, tools, and best practices that can enhance your capabilities and efficiency. You can learn new technologies by taking online courses, reading blogs and books, watching videos and webinars, attending conferences and workshops, or joining online communities and forums. You should also practice applying what you learn to your own projects and challenges.

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Sunny Kichloo

Database Architect at Nutanix|Ex-Oracle ACE ♠|Database Migration Architect
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Learning new technologies is one of important aspect of any new tech jobs.We have to evolve ourself everyday so that we know what are trending topics.One thing in which you can keep yourself updated is by joining any tech forum or if you like to blog do write some articles.Have some test environment created in your personal laptop and implement and test your learnings which will give you some basic confidence.Certification is one the important tool which is provided by many database provider so try to complete those as per your convenience.

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5 Challenge yourself

A fifth way to measure your progress as a DBA is to challenge yourself with new and complex tasks that stretch your skills and knowledge. Challenging yourself can help you grow as a professional, discover new solutions, and overcome your limitations. You can challenge yourself by taking on more responsibilities, volunteering for new projects, solving difficult problems, or pursuing certifications or degrees. You should also seek feedback and support from others who can help you learn and improve.

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6 Celebrate your wins

A sixth way to measure your progress as a DBA is to celebrate your wins, big and small. Celebrating your wins can help you boost your confidence, motivation, and satisfaction. It can also help you recognize your achievements and appreciate your efforts. You can celebrate your wins by rewarding yourself, sharing your success stories, thanking your supporters, or reflecting on your journey. You should also celebrate the wins of others who have helped you along the way.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you measure your progress as a DBA?

1

2

3

4

5

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7

1 Set SMART goals

2 Track key metrics

3 Seek feedback

4 Learn new technologies

5 Challenge yourself

6 Celebrate your wins

7 Here’s what else to consider

Database Administration

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How do you measure your progress as a DBA?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Set SMART goals

2 Track key metrics

3 Seek feedback

4 Learn new technologies

5 Challenge yourself

6 Celebrate your wins

7 Here’s what else to consider

Database Administration

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