The world of databases is taking on a new shape with the growth of Big Data. But how can an open source solution deliver a competitive edge against proprietary offerings? Bruce Momjian, co-founder of PostgreSQL Global Development Group and senior database architect at EnterpriseDB, reveals this secret in an exclusive conversation with Rahul Chopra and Jagmeet Singh of OSFY. Edited excerpts...
Q How has PostgreSQL evolved over the years?
Postgres has evolved from an academic project focused on bug fixing to an enterprise project the first added SQL standards then emphasized adding enterprise-class features. It is currently in the innovation stage where we are adding features no other database has. Now begins the Golden Age of Postgres when people use it because it does things no other database can.
Q Who drives the rollout process at Postgres? Is it solely driven by the community, or is there any role played by the EnterpriseDB team?
The rollout of PostgreSQL updates are solely driven by community members. However, inputs are taken from any user or organisation who wants to provide suggestions and feedback. EnterpriseDB supports the rollout of PostgreSQL releases by hosting software downloads and providing time for key employees to spend on community work during release cycles.
Q Which would be the closest open source competitor for Postgres?
I do not think there is a competitor for Postgres. Several people leave MySQL because they prefer Postgres, but very few go the other way. The only real advantage MySQL has over Postgres is its install base and ISV applications. However, MySQL is not developed by an open source community. It is an open source option developed by Oracle..
Q What do you think are the key features of Postgres that keep it a step ahead of MySQL?
By any measure—features, performance, usability and reliability—Postgres is ahead of MySQL and has been for years. I think the only advantage MySQL has is its existing staff skills and pre-built applications that require it.
Q How can an existing MySQL user move to Postgres?
This story is from the April 2017 edition of Open Source For You.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 2017 edition of Open Source For You.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
How Much Open Source Is Too Much Open Source?
Intel’s OpenVINO toolkit helps developers by streamlining code writing, freeing them to concentrate on other vital project aspects. Al Evangelist at Intel, Anisha Udayakumar, elucidates on OpenVINO's versatility.
Kubernetes: A Dependable and Popular Platform
Kubernetes is more than just a tool; it serves as a robust platform, streamlining the deployment of applications, as well as their scaling and operation in various environments.
APIs: Helping Applications Communicate and Collaborate
Application programming interfaces APIs) have become integral components that facilitate seamless communication and interaction between different software systems. They play a pivotal role in modern software development, contributing to interoperability, scalability, and innovation across diverse applications. We delve into the fundamentals of APIs, exploring their definition, functions, types, and the significant impact they have on the digital landscape.
Languages for AI/ML: A Quick Look at Python, R, and Julia
We explore three open source languages used for Al/ML—Python, R, and Julia—highlighting their key features and advantages. You will get to know the diverse options these offer for A/ML development, so that you can select the right language for your project.
The Cost of Inaction: Exploring the Consequences of Ignoring lloT Security Risks
As Industrial loT IloT) integration surges, so do security concerns. Let’s delve into the rising threat landscape and the role of the security model in fortifying lloT defences and safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Ensuring Ethics in AI and Mitigating Bias
As AI solutions proliferate, ensuring they are not biased with respect to gender, religion, financial status, etc, has become of paramount importance. The good news is that there is a lot of work being done on that front.
Open Source Tools for Generative Al: An Introduction
Open source generative Al tools are software programs and libraries that enable users to generate creative and novel output using Al algorithms. They are smart and powerful, and enable various forms of content generation.
PHP Geek, FOSS Enthusiast, CTO and a Paediatrician
‘PHP geek, free and open source software enthusiast, CTO chief technical officer) of SANIsoft’ that’s how Dr Tarique Sani likes to describe himself. He’s qualified to be a paediatrician, but his love for open source has turned him into a geek for the past two decades and more. He recalls the good old days...
The Transformative Impact of Generative AI on Organisations
Generative Al is impacting organisations for the better. End users, company employees, developers and operations teams are all benefiting from it.
"Open source allows us to lower costs, accelerate delivery, and customise solutions to meet the market's fast-paced demands"
Open source is crucial for cost reduction and accelerated delivery of tailored solutions to meet market demands. At OSI 2023, OSFY’s Yashasvini Razdan got a chance to speak to Dr Biswajit Mohapatra, Head, Customer Solutions at Amazon Web Services, who spoke about how open source empowered businesses with flexibility, experimentation, and agile methodologies for genuine customer satisfaction.
