Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer Test

The Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer assessment evaluates key capabilities in managing, securing, and optimizing SQL Server environments effectively.

Available in

  • English

12 Skills measured

  • Query Store
  • JSON Support
  • Temporal Tables
  • Row-Level Security
  • Dynamic Data Masking
  • Always Encrypted
  • Stretch Database
  • PolyBase
  • In-Memory OLTP Improvements
  • Advanced Analytics
  • Security Auditing Enhancements
  • Performance Tuning

Test Type

Role Specific Skills

Duration

30 mins

Level

Intermediate

Questions

33

Use of Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer Test

The Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer assessment evaluates key capabilities in managing, securing, and optimizing SQL Server environments effectively.

This assessment for Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer focuses on evaluating a candidate's proficiency with critical SQL Server functionalities and their ability to effectively manage and optimize databases. The importance of this assessment lies in its ability to determine a candidate’s capability to leverage SQL Server 2016's advanced features, such as data security, performance tuning, and data integration, which are essential for robust database management.

Hiring for roles that require in-depth knowledge of SQL Server 2016 demands a comprehensive understanding of various sub-skills. These include handling JSON data, implementing advanced security measures like Row-Level Security and Always Encrypted, and utilizing development enhancements such as Temporal Tables and In-Memory OLTP Improvements. The assessment covers these areas without delving into overly technical specifics, ensuring that candidates are tested on their practical knowledge and application skills.

By employing this assessment in the recruitment process, companies ensure that their database developers are not only adept at managing day-to-day database operations but are also capable of implementing long-term solutions that leverage SQL Server 2016’s advanced capabilities. This is crucial in roles where developers are expected to enhance data security, improve performance, and integrate complex data systems seamlessly.

Candidates who perform well in this assessment are likely to excel in managing modern database systems, optimizing data storage and retrieval, and safeguarding data—all pivotal for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of business operations. Thus, this test is vital in selecting candidates who can contribute significantly to the technological growth and data management strategy of the company.

Skills measured

The Query Store feature acts as a flight recorder for SQL Server, capturing a history of queries, plans, and runtime statistics. It is crucial for performance tuning as it allows developers to quickly find and fix performance issues by comparing historical and current data. Having this skill assessed ensures developers can effectively optimize database performance, a key requirement for maintaining efficient SQL operations.

JSON support in SQL Server 2016 allows for the integration of SQL with web-based applications by enabling the database to parse and store JSON data. This is essential as JSON is widely used in data interchange. Assessing this skill ensures that developers are capable of implementing modern applications that require seamless data interchange between SQL servers and web clients.

Temporal Tables provide built-in support for storing and retrieving historical data in SQL Server. This feature is important for data auditing and analyzing trends over time. In assessments, this skill verifies a developer’s ability to handle and query historical data, which is crucial for applications where understanding data evolution is necessary.

Row-Level Security (RLS) allows security policies to control access to rows in a database table. This feature is important for creating secure multi-user applications. Assessing this skill ensures developers can implement robust security measures that protect sensitive data at a granular level.

Dynamic Data Masking helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data by masking it to non-privileged users. This skill is essential in environments where data security and compliance are paramount. Including it in an assessment ensures developers understand how to safeguard sensitive information effectively.

Always Encrypted enhances data security by allowing data to be encrypted at rest and in transit, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access. This skill is crucial for compliance with privacy policies and security standards. Assessing it ensures developers can implement and manage encryption correctly, a fundamental aspect of data security.

Stretch Database allows for remote archiving of cold data to Microsoft Azure, keeping data accessible without overwhelming local storage. This feature is important for managing large data volumes cost-effectively. Assessing this skill ensures developers can optimize storage and maintain data accessibility efficiently.

PolyBase enables SQL Server to process Transact-SQL queries that read data from external data sources like Hadoop or Azure Blob Storage. This skill is important for big data integration. Assessing it ensures developers are capable of managing and querying large, diverse datasets, a critical capability in big data environments.

In-Memory OLTP significantly enhances the processing speed of transactional data. It is critical for high-performance applications that require rapid processing of complex transactions. By assessing this skill, you ensure that developers can optimize database capabilities for maximum transactional speed and efficiency.

Integration with R services in SQL Server 2016 enables developers to perform advanced analytics directly within the database, reducing data movement and improving efficiency. This skill is crucial for developing predictive analytics and statistical models to drive business decisions. Assessing this skill ensures developers can leverage in-database analytics effectively.

Enhanced security auditing in SQL Server 2016 allows for more detailed tracking of database activities, which is crucial for compliance and security. Assessing this skill ensures that developers are proficient in implementing and managing detailed audits, an essential capability for maintaining the integrity and security of data in enterprise environments.

Performance tuning in SQL Server is essential for optimizing database speed and efficiency. This skill involves adjusting indexes, optimizing queries, and configuring servers to enhance performance. Assessing this ability ensures candidates can effectively manage and improve database operations, crucial for systems requiring fast data access and high transaction volumes. It is vital for minimizing bottlenecks and maintaining optimal system performance, making it a key competency for database professionals in dynamic, data-driven environments.

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Recruiter efficiency

6x

Recruiter efficiency

Decrease in time to hire

55%

Decrease in time to hire

Candidate satisfaction

94%

Candidate satisfaction

Subject Matter Expert Test

The Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer Subject Matter Expert

Testlify’s skill tests are designed by experienced SMEs (subject matter experts). We evaluate these experts based on specific metrics such as expertise, capability, and their market reputation. Prior to being published, each skill test is peer-reviewed by other experts and then calibrated based on insights derived from a significant number of test-takers who are well-versed in that skill area. Our inherent feedback systems and built-in algorithms enable our SMEs to refine our tests continually.

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Top five hard skills interview questions for Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer

Here are the top five hard-skill interview questions tailored specifically for Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer. These questions are designed to assess candidates’ expertise and suitability for the role, along with skill assessments.

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Why this matters?

Managing data access precisely within an organization ensures both compliance and operational integrity, making Row-Level Security a vital tool.

What to listen for?

Expect a concise strategy detailing the setup of security policies and their alignment with user roles or departments. Effective answers should reflect a clear understanding of SQL security models and practical application scenarios.

Why this matters?

JSON integration reflects a developer's ability to bridge SQL Server with modern data interchange formats, crucial for dynamic application development.

What to listen for?

Look for practical examples that demonstrate command over JSON functions in SQL Server, problem-solving skills in handling data structure issues, and innovative uses of JSON to streamline operations.

Why this matters?

Proficiency with Query Store directly correlates to a developer's ability to enhance database performance and reliability.

What to listen for?

The candidate should demonstrate a strategic approach using Query Store, highlighting their ability to analyze query performance data, pinpoint issues, and implement fixes. Effective answers will also touch on the use of graphical tools and SQL commands within Query Store.

Why this matters?

Always Encrypted helps protect sensitive data, requiring developers to handle encryption keys and data access securely and efficiently.

What to listen for?

The answer should detail steps to enable encryption, manage keys securely, and include potential pitfalls or challenges. A strong response will convey an understanding of the balance between security and usability.

Why this matters?

PolyBase integration showcases a developer’s capability to extend SQL Server’s functionalities to big data platforms, enhancing business intelligence.

What to listen for?

Successful responses will include specific examples that highlight strategic planning, execution, and the technical handling of data across platforms. Listen for a discussion on optimizing query performance and managing data consistency.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) for Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer Test

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The Microsoft SQL Server 2016 Developer assessment is designed to evaluate a candidate’s proficiency with SQL Server 2016, focusing on their ability to leverage its specific features for database management, optimization, and security. It tests both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Use the assessment during the initial screening phase to gauge applicants’ technical skills and knowledge related to SQL Server 2016. It helps identify candidates with the necessary expertise to manage and optimize SQL Server environments efficiently before proceeding to more in-depth interview stages.

  • SQL Server Developer
  • Database Administrator
  • Database Architect
  • Business Intelligence Developer
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Engineer
  • Systems Engineer
  • IT Manager
  • Software Developer
  • Data Scientist
  • Database Consultant
  • Application Developer
  • Solutions Architect
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • Cloud Database Administrator

  • Query Store
  • JSON Support
  • Temporal Tables
  • Row-Level Security
  • Dynamic Data Masking
  • Always Encrypted
  • Stretch Database
  • PolyBase
  • In-Memory OLTP Improvements
  • Advanced Analytics
  • Security Auditing Enhancements

It’s crucial for ensuring that potential hires have a solid understanding and practical experience with SQL Server 2016, particularly its security and performance features. This ensures candidates are capable of managing modern database solutions, safeguarding sensitive data, and optimizing database performance, which are critical for any organization’s data management strategy.

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