What do you wish database admins would understand?

First: for those who remember me posting in the QA and testing sections on behalf of the fine folks at Software Test & Performance magazine... I have a new job! In February, I started working at Digital Media Online (www.digitalmedianet.com), where I'm responsible for a new, not-yet-launched site for IT Business (www.itbusinessnet.com, if you want to see a "coming soon" graphic). I'm no longer writing for ST&P (though I love those people dearly) or editing for Informit.com (ditto), though I'm still editor of DevSource.com.

ANYhow. My new site encompasses everything IT-related, which naturally includes software development and database management (along with hardware, security, and business applications). Since I need to write a lot of articles before we flick on the lights, I though I'd be smart, and come to this gang of delightful, helpful people. (In other words, I like you so much that I can't stay away.)

Here's the issue I'm working with: the tension between the database people and the development staff. There often seems to be a problem here, from expectations to unclear communication. So I'm wondering: what do developers wish the database folks truly understood? (And its counterpart, which I'll ask in a few database admin forums -- suggestions welcome! -- what do database admins long for programmers to understand?) I figure that the point/counterpoint could help both audiences learn from one another... and might help those IT managers create peace in our time. Or at least pick a flavor of pizza that both teams will agree upon.

I'd love, LOVE to hear horror stories, as well as any personal anecdotes that demonstrate either the problem or a solution that's worked for you.

As usual, since I'm writing a business article, I need your real name and company, or location, or something that makes it clear you're a real person. (I'm happy with "Jane Smith, a programmer at a large midwestern insurance company" -- the point is credibility.

Esther Schindler
now at Digital Media Online, yay!
[ February 24, 2006: Message edited by: Esther Schindler ]

Moved to the Jobs forum.