Re: relational databases vs. not-so relational databases

Interesting views Jan - and so much at variance with mine. Funny old world isn't it?

I've been working with nested relational databases for years and have never yet encountered a DBA - there's simply no need for them. I can testify that the claims made regarding simplicity and ease of use are merited. Nested relational databases are also extremely flexible. We can easily extend the database, adding new fields on to records whilst the database is in use.

Typically there are certain data structures that are naturally nested. I can think of orders with one or more line-items, products with one or more parts, news groups with one or more threads, etc., etc.. It makes perfect sense to me for this nesting to be reflected in the database design. I don't accept that it is preferable to explicitly maintain the relationship. Why bother? With a nested implicit relationship you lose nothing. It is, simply, better. IMHO of course.

Regards
Mike. Received on Thu Jan 24 2002 - 18:07:34 CET