Converged database
A converged database is a modern approach to a database management system (DBMS) that combines the capabilities of multiple database models into a single, unified database platform.[1] [2] Converged databases support various data models, workloads, and development paradigms within a single unified database and are particularly useful for data-driven applications that require a variety of data types and processing workloads.[1][2] This approach contrasts with the traditional DBMS model of having a different type of databases for each type of data and workload. Converged databases are a current database management trend[3][4] and are viewed as a data management best practice.[5][6][7]
Converged databases are distinct from multi-model databases. Multi-model databases provide versatility through their ability to handle different types of data and queries without needing to integrate separate databases. In contrast, a converged database goes beyond just supporting multiple data models by integrating various technologies and capabilities within a single database engine to handle a wide range of workloads and data types.[1][2] The key distinction between the two therefore lies in the extent and depth of integration. While a multi-model database focuses on supporting different data models, a converged database aims to provide a unified solution that can handle a wide array of workloads and data types, along with the ability to scale, manage, and secure data effectively.
Characteristics
The two key characteristics of a converged database are:
- Support for Multiple Data Types - The ability to store and manage various data types, such as relational, graph, time series, spatial, JSON, vector and others, all within the same database. This allows for the storage and management of structured, unstructured, and semi-structured information within a single database and eliminates the need for separate databases for each data type.[1][2]
- Support for Diverse Workloads - The ability to support a range of workloads, including online transaction processing (OLTP), data warehousing, machine learning, and others. This versatility allows organizations to use a single database for both operational and analytical workloads.[1][2]
Benefits
The benefits of using a converged database include:
- Simplification of IT Infrastructure - A converged database simplifies an IT infrastructure by allowing for the reduction of the number of different database technologies needed. This consolidation reduces the complexity and cost associated with multiple databases, which all require their own set of management tools, security models and integration interfaces.[1][2][8]
- Improved Data Integrity and Security - A converged database ensures better data integrity and security by making it easier to apply consistent security policies and maintain data accuracy when all data resides in a single database.[1][2]
Examples
Examples of converged databases include IBM Db2[9] and Oracle Database.[2]
See Also
- Multi-model database
- Database
- Data warehouse
- OLTP
- Relational database
- Time series database
- Graph database
- Vector database
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 LaPlante, Alice (August 2021). Developing Modern Applications with a Converged Database. O'Reilly Media, Inc.. ISBN 978-1098107383.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 Gupta, Divit (January 2024). The Cloud Computing Journey. Packt Publishing. ISBN 978-1805122289.
- ↑ Reis, Joe (June 2022). Fundamentals of Data Engineering. O'Reilly Media, Inc.. ISBN 978-1098108304.
- ↑ Foote, Keith (Dec 19, 2023). "Database Management Trends in 2024". Dataversity. https://www.dataversity.net/database-management-trends-in-2024/.
- ↑ Ottenstein, Lizzie (May 31, 2022). "Data Management - Importance and 7 Best Practices". Fusemachines. https://insights.fusemachines.com/data-management-importance-and-7-best-practices/.
- ↑ "What is Data Management and Why Does It Matter for Your Business?". BPO Insights. Oct 20, 2023. https://innovatureinc.com/what-is-data-management/.
- ↑ DeVane, Heather (September 22, 2023). "The Evolution of the Modern Cloud Data Warehouse". Immuta. https://www.immuta.com/blog/the-modern-cloud-data-warehouse/.
- ↑ Newcomer, Eric (July 18, 2023). "Chasing the Database Holy Grail: The Converged Model". Intellyx. https://intellyx.com/2023/07/18/chasing-the-database-holy-grail-the-converged-model/.
- ↑ Divit, Gupta (December 2021). "What's New With Db2?". https://wdug.com/resources/Documents/LUW%20Presentations/Nov%202021/Tanmay%20Sinha%20IBM%20WhatisnewDb2.pdf.
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