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Casual observers might have thought Microsoft's SQL Server 2008 database management program was released way back in February, as part of the big "Heroes Happen Here"-themed "launch event" for Windows Server 2008, Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 -- and, yes, SQL Server 2008.

In fact, in the case of the new SQL Server, the "launch event" was technically a "celebration" of its launch. For the record, the actual release was announced today, more than five months later.

Of course, it wasn't a secret at the time of the "launch event" that SQL Server 2008 wasn't actually coming out yet. Microsoft originally planned the event to tout the benefits of using the three products together, and it went ahead with that strategy even though SQL Server 2008 wasn't finished at the time. A preliminary version was available as a technology preview back then.

But in the end, the situation seems to have confused even people inside the company. Consider these two separate statements in Microsoft's 10-K filing last week.

"Fiscal year 2008 saw widespread adoption of Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office system and the launch of Windows Server 2008, SQL Server 2008, and Visual Studio 2008."

"We expect continued growth in both product and services revenue driven by strong customer demand for the recently released Windows Server 2008 and Visual Studio 2008 and upcoming release of SQL Server 2008."

In other words, according to Microsoft, SQL Server 2008 had been launched, but it had yet to be released. Since when is a product launch not a product release? There must be some internal Microsoft marketing dictionary that explains the difference.

At any rate, the finished product was released to manufacturing this morning, which means it will be generally available within a week or two. SQL Server is a key part of Microsoft's stalwart Server and Tools Division. In part because of the new version, the division saw its operating profit rise 26 percent last year, to more than $4.5 billion. Here's Microsoft's overview of the features in the new version.

Coverage:
InformationWeek: Microsoft Releases SQL Server 2008
CNet News.com: Microsoft releases SQL Server 2008
Web Host Industry Review: Microsoft Releases SQL Server 2008
InfoWorld: Microsoft releases SQL Server 2008