Jim
The "performance difference" was measured, boffins took over and decided the difference warranted index changes. I stood back and nodded wisely. < g > It was with SQL Server 6.5.
My "take" is that SQL Server changes even faster than Word (look at SQL7 then 2000 now 2002) and it's too complex for a part time keep up. I just call in the boffins. It was boffins who pointed out that after SQL7, parameterised SPT and/or RV can perform in the same ballpark as SP, contrary to what all the books say...
Regards
JR
"... They ne'er cared for us
yet: suffer us to famish, and their store-houses
crammed with grain; make edicts for usury, to
support usurers; repeal daily any wholesome act
established against the rich, and provide more
piercing statutes daily, to chain up and restrain
the poor. If the wars eat us not up, they will; and
there's all the love they bear us."
-- Shakespeare: Coriolanus, Act 1, scene 1