Databases are the cornerstone of most modern applications. As soon as a large amount of data accumulates that needs to be backed up and retrievable, a database comes into play. The goal of databases is to save and index information so that it can be found and retrieved as efficiently as possible. The significance of an efficiently functioning database becomes apparent with complex data models and immense amounts of information.
Relational and Non-Relational Databases
The concept of relations
There are different database architecture concepts. The relational database architecture is the most proven and most used type of database. PostgreSQL, MySQL or Oracle, for example, use the relational data model to manage data. Here, work is done with so-called tables, in which data tuples are stored. Each tuple has a primary key with which it is indexed. So-called relations can be defined between tables, which can be used to link information with each other.
Databases enable efficient and structured organisation of information, which leads to improved data management, faster query times and better scalability. By using databases, SMEs can optimise their business processes, make well-founded decisions based on data analyses and increase the efficiency of their processes. This not only contributes to competitiveness, but also enables better adaptation to changing market conditions. In addition, databases support the security and integrity of sensitive company data, which is crucial in an increasingly digitalised business world. Overall, well-managed databases are an indispensable tool for companies to utilise their data effectively and drive growth.
Can it also be a little more flexible?
Besides relational databases, there are some non-relational alternatives such as MongoDB or Redis. They offer more flexibility in the definition of the data model and can therefore map abstract data objects more realistically. MongoDB, for example, follows a document-oriented principle that is very similar to the JSON object. Each object also has a primary key, which is used to index it. Redis, on the other hand, follows a key-value principle. For a given key, data structures ranging from simple strings to lists, sets or hashes can be stored. Redis is often used for caching because its read and write rates are very fast.
So what makes more sense?
The choice of the right type of database depends on the intended use. relational databases such as MySQL offer high data fidelity and also high read and write speeds. Due to the relational model, only data that conforms to the given data pattern is included. document-oriented databases such as MongoDB, on the other hand, offer high flexibility and adaptability in data modelling, but cannot guarantee high data security. It is therefore not predictable with 100% probability whether data will be retrieved and is complete. MongoDB, however, is perfectly suited for huge and unpredictable amounts of data, such as in a mobile app.
In the decision-making process, it is important to know how accurately the data should be retrieved, whether data loss is allowed and how scalable the database should be. Thanks to its extensive experience in software development and in dealing with data, soxes is able to assess which database should be used. Furthermore, soxes offers its customers the know-how for a wide range of different database paradigms.
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Sofia Steninger
Solution Sales Manager
