Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
database cluster might be operationally more efficient than running one cluster for
data, one cluster for search, and one cluster for key-value stores.
This is why in many of our evaluations we include a separate column for a hybrid
solution that uses different components for different aspects of an application. Sup-
porting multiple clusters can allow the team to use specialized databases that will be
tuned for different tasks. Tuning each cluster needs its own operational budget
extending out over multiple years.
A best practice is to use cloud-based services whenever possible. These services can
reduce your overhead operational costs and, in some cases, make them more predict-
able. Predicting the costs of cloud-based NoSQL services can be complicated, since
the services chart is based on many factors, such as disk spaced used, the number of
bytes of input and output, and the number of transactions.
There are times when cloud computing shouldn't be used—say, if your business
problem requires data to be constantly moved between a private data center and the
cloud. Storing all static resources on a public cloud works well when your users are
based on the internet. This means that the
I/O
of users hitting your local site will be
much lower. Since
I/O
is sometimes a key limitation for a website, removing static data
from the site can be a great way to lower overall cost.
As you complete your analysis, you begin thinking about the best way to communi-
cate your findings and recommendations to your team and stakeholders and move
forward with the project.
12.5
Communicating the results to stakeholders
To move your NoSQL pilot project forward, you need to present a compelling argu-
ment to your stakeholders. Frequently, those who make this important decision are
also the least technical people in the organization. To receive serious consideration,
you must communicate your results and findings clearly, concisely, and in a way every-
one understands. Drawing detailed architecture diagrams will only be valuable if your
intended audience understands the meaning of all the boxes and lines in the diagram.
Many projects do select the best match of a business problem to the right NoSQL
architecture, yet they fail to communicate the details of why a decision was made to
the right people and so the endeavor fails. The architecture trade-off analysis process
should be integrated with the project communication plan. To create a successful out-
come, you need to trade your analyst hat for a marketing hat.
12.5.1
Using quality trees as navigational maps
A goal of this topic is to create a vocabulary and a set of tools for helping everyone,
including nontechnical staff, to understand the key issues of database selection.
One of the most difficult parts of presenting results to your stakeholders is creating
a shared navigational map that helps everyone orient themselves to the results of the
evaluation. Navigational maps help stakeholders determine whether their concerns
have been addressed and how well the solution meets their concerns.
