Editor's note
Relational databases built around the SQL programming language have long been the top -- and, in many cases, only -- choice of database technologies for organizations. Now, with the emergence of various NoSQL software platforms, IT managers and business executives involved in technology decisions have more options on database deployments. NoSQL databases support dynamic schema design, offering the potential for increased flexibility, scalability and customization compared to relational software. That makes them a good fit for Web applications, content management systems and other uses involving large amounts of non-uniform data requiring frequent updates and varying field formats. In particular, NoSQL technologies are designed with "big data" needs in mind.
But for prospective users, the array of NoSQL database choices may seem confusing or even overwhelming. NoSQL databases are grouped into four primary product categories with different architectural characteristics: document databases, graph databases, key-value databases and wide column stores. Many NoSQL platforms are also tailored for specific purposes, and they may or may not work well with SQL technologies, which could be a necessity in some organizations. In addition, most NoSQL systems aren't suitable replacements for relational databases in transaction processing applications, because they lack full ACID compliance for guaranteeing transactional integrity and data consistency.
As a result, IT and business professionals making database buying decisions must carefully evaluate whether the available NoSQL options fit their business needs. In this guide, you can learn more about what NoSQL software can do and how it differs from relational databases. Trend stories and user case studies document how NoSQL databases can be used to support big data, cloud computing and business analytics applications. And experienced users from companies that have already deployed NoSQL tools offer advice on how to make the technology selection and implementation process smoother.
1NoSQL user stories and deployment best practices
Various types of businesses have deployed NoSQL database technologies and shared their stories about the deployments -- including projects that involve the use of SQL and NewSQL technologies as additions or alternatives to NoSQL software. In this section, learn more about what works and what doesn't and get tips on which options are most suitable for your data processing, business intelligence and analytics needs.
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Article
Companies seek to gain competitive advantages with NoSQL databases
This article examines case studies related to NoSQL database deployments at several companies based in Europe, including travel reservation system operator Amadeus. Read Now
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Article
Going from NoSQL to NewSQL: One company's experience
Learn why logistics exchange operator DropShip Commerce decided to switch from NoSQL to NewSQL software that combines SQL and NoSQL traits to run its B2B platform. Read Now
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Article
Don't get dazzled by NoSQL, other new database technologies
NoSQL platforms and other alternatives to relational databases promise fast performance. But if they don't fit an organization's business needs, they aren't a good investment. Read Now
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Article
Tips on securing NoSQL applications, getting the most from big data
Abate big data security concerns with the best-practices advice for ensuring secure NoSQL applications offered in this article. Read Now
2Expert insight on NoSQL software, relational databases and big data
A growing number of companies are using NoSQL database technology in their big data environments, but relational databases and other types of data management platforms may be required as well. Learn more about using NoSQL databases and building a big data architecture in these video interviews.
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Video
Relational and NoSQL database debate not always an either-or choice
Consultant William McKnight shares insights about NoSQL and relational databases and explains why there's room for both in IT architectures. Watch Now
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Video
User: Big data demands put NoSQL technology in play for Oracle shops
Oracle database user John Kanagaraj says there are potential advantages to using NoSQL systems to support big data applications -- but some downsides, too. Watch Now
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Video
Big data projects get support from combination of data platforms
Consultant John Myers discusses key trends in big data environments, including the use of multiple technologies and adoption rates for Hadoop clusters and NoSQL databases. Watch Now
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Video
Spotlight on NoSQL database technology with MongoDB CEO
Get advice on using NoSQL database technology to support big data initiatives from MongoDB CEO Max Schireson. Watch Now
3Assess your knowledge of NoSQL databases
Take this brief quiz to check your understanding of NoSQL technology.