Development DBAs assist in the design of databases. They work with developers in normalizing data, creation of tables, indexes, views, procedures, and triggers. They may write SQL and advise developers how to write good SQL. They participate in performance testing.
Production DBAs maintain databases after they've been implemented. They are responsible to make sure the databases are secure, backups are made and adequate disk space is available. They monitor servers to make sure they perform well. They reindex, reorganize and defragment databases. They correct and try to prevent errors. They make sure jobs run as scheduled. They apply software updates or service packs.
In many shops, like the one where I work, there is no clear delineation between development and production DBAs. There are two DBAs in our shop and both of us wear both hats, though I readily admit that my coworker is a much better Production DBA than I am. I defer to his judgment in matters such as backup and recovery strategy, scheduled maintenance and job scheduling.
If you want more information, I suggest doing a web search for "production DBA" and "development DBA." You're sure to find some excellent definitions and explanations.
Terry L. Broadbent
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