Datamation: Doors Still Closed to Open Source Databases

“Through 2005 and beyond, we believe Open Source Databases
(OSDBs) will be a non-factor in the database management system
(DBMS) market, relegated to non-critical tasks (such as clickstream
logging and directories)….”

“To achieve large-scale adoption of OSDBs, IT organizations must
be convinced of a solid support environment. In the proprietary
world, numerous consulting firms, both large and small, are ready
to help an organization. DBMS vendors either offer their own
consulting services or partner with certified providers
worldwide.”

“The same cannot be said of the OSDB market. Several companies
have formed to provide support and services around open source
databases. Companies such as Great Bridge (PostgreSQL), NuSphere,
and AbriaSoft (MySQL) are following in the footsteps of Linux
companies like Red Hat. The problem is that no one has proven a
business can be profitable and remain viable long term by selling
support and services around open source software. In fact, these
very organizations are often at the mercy of the informal open
source communities that are responsible for bug fixes, features,
and release schedules. This uncertainty will further add to a
potential customer’s angst over adopting an OSDB.”

Complete Story