Yes, your business or organization does need database software. And if you’re reading this website, you probably already know that. But which ones are good for small- or medium-sized businesses (SMBs)?
Whether it is locally-managed or handled by a service provider; on-site or off: the right database software system, or database management system (DBMS), is critical to maximize performance and minimize IT headaches.
What to look for in database software packages:
- the availability of different apps which could pose benefits to your business/org now or down the line
- data security that allows constant encryption, backup, and restore functions
- a solution which will scale to your needs over, say, at least 5 years
- a user interface that’s easy to grok
MariaDB
This open-source solution was made by the original developers of MySQL and is used by Wikipedia, WordPress.com and Google. The database software runs on multiple OS and supports a variety of programming languages. While it doesn’t have a GUI, MariaDB executes large SQL queries with ease.
Oracle
No surprise that this made the list. Oracle has been making database products since 1979 and is one of the most well-recognized manufacturers worldwide. Worth noting about this database management system: It’s powerful but complex. New users will want to invest in solid training to ensure they’re getting the most from the software. Oracle also is embracing the cloud. Its latest release, 12c, allows companies to consolidate and manage databases as cloud services.
MySQL
An open-source alternative to Microsoft’s offering that still uses structured query language, MySQL has gained traction as the go-to DBMS for web-based business applications, especially those running e-commerce sites or leveraging dynamic content. Tech enterprises such as Facebook, Google and Adobe use this database management tool. Although it now falls under the Oracle umbrella, the project remains an open-source resource.
Kohezion
This web-based option allows users to create customized web based databases and design custom web-based applications to track clients, tasks, calls or any other data essential to business operations — without any programming. This solutions’ reviews are full of glowing praise for its customer service and sense of “completeness” in the package for the price — which is also somewhat competitive in the field.
Teradata
This is for forward-thinking SMBs dealing with big data. Credited with creating some of the original warehouses, Teradata also rolled out the very first terabyte database for Wal-Mart almost 25 years ago. Today, Teradata version 15.10 is a great choice for companies looking to handle high-volume big data, BI and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Amazon’s SimpleDB
Looking for a solid DBMS starting point? Amazon’s offering comes free with an EC2 deployment and provides the ability to store and query data items via web services requests along with true cloud integration.
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