In the previous module, we examined tuning using Oracle8 data structures including abstract data types, VARRAYs, and nested tables. We will now turn our attention to tuning using the Oracle data dictionary. Oracle provides a very limited tool set for monitoring their database. As a result, many third party monitoring tools have appeared. These include the Q product by Savant, DB-Vision by Platinum, Patrol by BMC, and a host of others.
However, Oracle does provide us with the tools to view the events within the active Oracle instance and create our own monitors and alert mechanisms.
By the time you complete this module you should be able to:

1. Use Oracle performance views for monitoring
2. Write an SGA snapshot routine to query the V$ views
3. Build a quick and effective Oracle alert monitor

The next lesson looks at the tools Oracle provides for viewing the performance of our database.