I am looking for an alternative to SQL Server Agent jobs - there is a need to control running and scheduling of processes (executables, "jobs") and so I intend to implement a Windows Service that will act as a scheduler for these processes.
These processes are not interactive, so there is no problem starting them from a Windows Service, but they need to work with SQL Server - reading and writing data, executing stored procedures etc.
Commands to windows service ("scheduler") - like "enqueue a job" - would be passed from SQL Server CLR in UDF or directly from a client side web app via WCF (haven't decided yet).
Is this a right way to do this? Are there any access and security issues should I be aware of? I am particulary worried about possible limitations on processes run from a windows service.
Please share your experiences with similar designs.
Also, I consider using SQL Server Service Broker (suggested in similar thread) but I am not sure if it fits my needs.
Thank you! Adam