Database Reference
In-Depth Information
at the forefront of architects' minds when building distributed systems.
Furthermore, it's often perceived that MPP systems are expensive and,
therefore, suitable only for truly massive datasets that are petabytes in size.
This is not the way to think about MPP or PDW. MPP solutions aren't as
expensive as people think. Likewise, scaling storage capacity is only one
goal when using an appliance like PDW. However, it is the most easily
understoodaspect,andsothisiswhypeopletalkaboutitmost.Ireallythink
it is the least compelling reason.
Consequently, this general lack of brand awareness, coupled with some
preconceived technology notions, often results in MPP technology and PDW
being eliminated from a solution build before being investigated as an
option. This is a real shame. I've seen many customers who would have
really benefitted from PDW, but have chosen to implement on SMP
technology and have suffered as a consequence. Even when they have heard
of PDW, some people have ultimately reached for their security blanket
and architected for SMP. I know some of those customers, and they are
regretting that decision.
Therefore, in this section we are going to focus on the what, why, and how
of PDW so you, the reader, get a much better understanding of why PDW
is an important technology that delivers great value to business users. My
intention is that you can also use this information to make an informed
decision in your next project.
What Is PDW?
PDW is unlike any other technology in the Microsoft Data Platform. For
starters, it is not just software, and it's more than hardware plus software.
It's an appliance. That means it comes with both hardware and software
all preconfigured to offer best practices, high availability, and balanced
performance, thus reducing the burden on the developers and the
operations team.
The analogy I like to use is that of a kettle. Kettle's do a job for you. They boil
water. You could use a pan on the stove, but you don't. If you want to boil
water quickly and easily, you buy a kettle. You might look online, read some
reviews, and check pricing; but basically, you find one that performs to your
needs (and preferably matches the décor of your kitchen). One quick trip to
the store and you have a kettle. You unbox it, plug it in, and away you go.
You are boiling water, quickly, simply, and efficiently. Remember, though,
