No to SQL

It appears there is a "rebellion" against relational databases, as reported in Computer World.

This is the typical problem when you just use off-the-shelf software without considering other options.

Some years ago, Prof. PMMVAS, in a class, presented a good summarization of the trade-offs in the database world:

Data structure complexity VS Query capabilities

Relational databases have simple data structures (tables) but sophisticated querying capabilities (SQL SELECT).

Hierarchical databases (e.g. XML) have more complex data structures (records) and less powerful queries.

Object databases have complex data structures (object graphs, code+data encapsulation) but poor querying capabilities.


It is an interesting discussion on how to keep our digital "bookshelves" organized...