Re: PostgreSQL flamage on Slashdot

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> And why are we "competing" against MySQL, exactly?
>
> Look, the people who use MySQL aren't going to use PostgreSQL.  They're
> looking for a fast, simple database with no DBA requirements, which IS NOT
> POSTGRESQL.  Such databases have their niche just as we have ours.

Sorry, but I must disagree with this. MySQL is as much our competitor as
Oracle is. Simply look at the number of open-source apps that use
MySQL instead of PostgreSQL to see why this is so. I also see plenty
of crossover as far as being a DBA is concerned: real DBAs are using
both products, everyday, on a wide variety of technical projects. People
who use MySQL *are* going to use PostgreSQL - the conversion happens
all the time. We should be encouraging the use of Postgres in all niches.

Remember, having a successful product is about much more than being
the best from a scientific/technical standpoint. Decisions are made
on a number of factors, such as supported platforms, market saturation,
availablity of skilled workers, interface tools, use in other
existing products, commercial support, etc. Every decision on which
database system to use affects the Postgres project, directly or indirectly.

I'm also tired of the attitude that MySQL is somehow "beneath" us,
and a "hobby" database. Sure, PostgreSQL is more feature-rich, but
that growth is asymptotic, and MySQL is moving forward and adding
features all the time. In almost every other aspect except the actual
database engine, MySQL is the better project. MySQL are PostgreSQL
are going to grow together quicker than they grow apart. We should
treat them with respect as a friendly rival.

- --
Greg Sabino Mullane greg@turnstep.com
PGP Key: 0x14964AC8 200303191259

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