We covered a few examples of how you could monitor and automate SQL Server tasks in this chapter. Albeit small, this knowledge should open up a world of possibilities for you when you decide to monitor and automate using PowerShell. These are a few items you could consider monitoring: backup jobs, database connectivity, service pack installations, schema changes, and tracking suspicious logins.

PowerShell would also be great with administrative tasks, such as exporting information to files and managing files (deleting or archiving files older than x number of days for instance).

Remember, however, that PowerShell is still just another tool. There may be better or worse tool options for what you are trying to accomplish. Just make sure that you evaluate the trade-offs and go with the one that offers the most benefit to you or your project/company.

If you choose to stay in the PowerShell path however, you are most likely to be impressed with its capabilities. It's a maturing platform...