The document discusses the importance of database scalability and various strategies for optimizing databases, including vertical and horizontal partitioning, distributed partitioned views, and database sharding. It emphasizes the need for methodologies to scale databases effectively due to increasing data volumes and workloads, and outlines the benefits of partitioning such as improved performance, availability, and security. Additionally, the document details specific techniques and tools for implementing these strategies in Microsoft SQL Server 2016 and Azure environments.