SQL Server maintenance plans are a powerful tool for managing and automating routine tasks such as backups, index maintenance, and database integrity checks. With the introduction of SSIS-backed maintenance plans in SQL Server 2005 and beyond, managing these tasks has become even easier.

However, there are some important considerations and best practices to keep in mind when working with maintenance plans to ensure smooth execution and avoid unexpected issues.

1. Keep Everything Inside the Maintenance Plan

One common mistake is to modify the generated SQL Server Agent jobs associated with the maintenance plan directly. While it may seem convenient to add additional steps or modify existing ones outside of the maintenance plan, this can lead to unexpected behavior.

As the example article highlights, saving a maintenance plan will overwrite any changes made to the associated SQL Server Agent jobs. To avoid this, it is recommended to perform all necessary tasks and modifications within the maintenance plan itself.

2. Use Separate Jobs for Additional Tasks

If you need to perform additional tasks that are not supported by the maintenance plan interface, such as copying backups to another machine, it is best to create a separate SQL Server Agent job for these tasks.

In the example article, the author encountered an issue when trying to copy backups using a PowerShell step within the maintenance plan. To overcome this limitation, they created a separate job specifically for the copying task and added it to each maintenance plan using the ‘Execute SQL Server Agent Job Task’.

3. Regularly Review and Adjust Maintenance Plans

As your database environment evolves, it is important to regularly review and adjust your maintenance plans to ensure they align with your current requirements. This includes adding new databases, modifying backup schedules, and adjusting maintenance tasks based on changing workload patterns.

By regularly reviewing and adjusting your maintenance plans, you can ensure that your SQL Server environment remains optimized and protected.

Conclusion

SQL Server maintenance plans are a valuable tool for automating routine tasks and ensuring the health and performance of your databases. By following these best practices, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure the smooth execution of your maintenance plans.