Can I create SSIS packages using Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Developer Edition. I have heard this can be done using Visual Studio 2008 or 2010, how can i get this tool for my personal computer i.e. self-study. I can't spend thousands of dollars in buying the license. Please advise.

Hi With the SQL Server Developer Edition install, you receive a free copy of Microsoft SQL Server Business Intelligence Development Studio (BIDS). This is a version of Visual Studio which allows you to perform all of the tasks required for SQL Server BI development, including SSIS. When installing SQL Developer edition, this is one of the options in the install HTHCraig Bryden - Please mark correct answers

Hi Craig, will i have to select this option during installation or is it selected by default?

Can I create SSIS packages using Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Developer Edition. Yes. When you install Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Developer Edition, Business Intelligence Development Studio (BIS) is installed. BIDS is a cut down version of Visual Studio that enables you to create SSIS, SSAS and SSRS projects. Visual Studio 2008 or 2010 can also be used to create SSIS packages. There are different versions of Visual Studio 2008/2010 and the prices for these versions varies from from country to country. If all you want to do is create SSIS packages then just use BIDS. Jeff Wharton MSysDev (C.Sturt), MDbDsgnMgt (C.Sturt) MCT, MCPD, MCITP, MCDBA, MCSD, MCAD