Introducing SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2 Integration Services 
(Marcin Policht) SQL Server platform comprises of several distinct, highly efficient components, which include Database Engine (with its Service Broker and Replication mechanisms), Analysis Services (incorporating Data Mining and Multi-dimensional Data methodologies), and Reporting Services. All of them are not only highly optimized for the purpose of accomplishing their intended goals, but also capable of interacting with each other. While some of this interaction is inherent to their individual design, its most powerful features are incorporated into the fourth main component, known as SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS). In addition to providing infrastructure for exchanging and manipulating data internal to SQL Server, SSIS also excels in performing equivalent tasks when dealing with wide variety of external data stores. The goal of our article is to describe its general characteristics.
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