Chapter 1. Introduction

I've always had a passion for computers and solving the problems that they present and create when put into a workplace. I started working with Microsoft's Small Business Products in 2003, leading the technical presentation to journalists of the, then new, Small Business Server (SBS) 2003 product. Since then, I have worked with small business customers and Microsoft partners to ensure high quality Small Business Server implementations.

When SBS 2008 was launched in November 2008 with updated technologies, I had already been working for two years with the SBS 2008 team inside Microsoft and a select group of Microsoft partners to ensure that the quality of delivery for small businesses would continue.

I've installed Microsoft products many, many times, and I've seen many people deploy SBS. Through my own installations and other people's, I've learned some simple guidelines that should lead you to a successful completion of your project to deploy SBS 2008 today.

Today, I still work for Microsoft, although I've moved on since I was the Head of Technology for Small Business. However, small business still has a large place in my heart, so I visit SBS groups around the country, where I listen and offer my experience of seeing people deploy SBS—both 2003 and now 2008.

This book is the culmination of the useful and valuable experience that I've gained, delivered in the easiest way to consume that I could devise without actually being there.

This chapter sets out to ensure you are prepared for your journey into SBS 2008, and then plot the route you will be taking and why.