Microsoft SQL Server 2016 is the backbone of many mission-critical applications and systems. Microsoft commissioned Forrester Consulting to conduct a Total Economic Impact™ (TEI) study and examine the potential return on investment (ROI) enterprises may realize by upgrading to Microsoft SQL Server 2016 (SQL Server 2016) from a mix of previous versions, primarily 2012 and 2014. The purpose of this study is to provide readers with a framework to evaluate the potential financial impact of SQL Server 2016 on their organizations.

To better understand the benefits, costs, and risks associated with this investment, Forrester interviewed six customers using SQL Server 2016. The core systems and revenues of these companies were dependent on Microsoft SQL performance and availability.

Prior to using SQL Server 2016, the customers were using a mix of previous versions of Microsoft SQL Server, mainly 2012 and 2014. To support their growth, the customers needed improved performance and scalability without adding a lot of cost. For this reason, along with the desire for newer features in SQL Server 2016, they migrated to the newer version.