We are improving RB9 SQL Servers

We wanted to let you know that we have some critical upgrading to do to RB9 and alert you to how it might affect you.

Upgrading to the latest SQL Server software

It’s time to upgrade the database management system we use for RB9: Microsoft SQL Server. For this major upgrade we have to re-build the system before converting your databases to the new SQL Server. We are currently in the testing phase of the re-build and plan to start converting everyone’s RB9 databases in May to SQL Server 2025. We expect this to be a 5–6 month project.

With this software improvement RB9 will perform better, be more reliable, and comfortably handle peak traffic times and increased workloads.

How this change affects you

Good news! This move to a better environment comes at no additional cost to our clients. Your monthly subscription rates remain the same.

To minimize disruptions, we will be making this upgrade during what are usually quieter times for our clients, 10PM–5AM PST weekdays plus longer times on weekends for larger databases. Our daily workflow will begin with EST clients and progress toward PST clients as the end of the shift approaches so our EST clients won’t be affected during their normal working hours.

We will convert smaller databases first and then go on to larger ones but in no particular order, so we are unable to pinpoint the exact date or time for any specific client.

When we are upgrading your RB9 to the new SQL Server, you will not be able to use the system. The interruption duration will depend on the database size — shorter times for smaller databases and longer times for larger databases — but we expect the impact to be minimal.

If you should experience an interruption at any time during the scheduled times of this upgrade that means we are in the middle of migrating your database. You will be able to access your system after 5AM PST that day.