Potential Drawbacks Of Distributed Databases

Advanced IT departments largely speak to the advantages of what are termed distributed databases. These databases are, in fact, wonderful tools that allow both people and businesses to efficiently share and access shared stores of information. While these tools are an excellent resource—promoting both efficient and informed workplaces—there are nonetheless potential drawbacks that need to be considered. If you are someone who has only ever considered the benefits that these databases provide, it is important that you consider both sides of the coin.

Costliness

When it comes down to it, implementing a distributed database at your place of work is sure to have some attendant costs. Because these databases are more complex structurally than simpler ones, they are going to cost a bit more expensive.

This costliness will likely not affect you unless you are in charge of a business’ finances. If you are someone working for a company that both profits and benefits from distributed databases, this technological tool will do little other than to minimize your workload. But if you are in any way in charge—financially or otherwise—it is quite important that you consider if the cost of these tools is worth it. Would it be more financially savvy to simply employ someone else to speed up work? Or is the cost of the database worth it? Coming up with a cost-benefit analysis is an excellent strategy to implement when making a decision about distributed databases?

Uncharted Territory

Because these databases are novel, they fall firmly within the category of uncharted territory. While there are hosts of reports that speak to the advantages of this technological resource, the fact remains that it is a relatively new technological tool. As such, it is difficult to make a definitive statement either way about its benefits and drawbacks.

As with any new technology, having a complete sense of its goods versus its harms is still in the process of being defined. Does this mean that you ought to avoid the technology until it has developed a more established track-record? Absolutely not. Simply be advised of the fact that you are dealing with a novel technology, and that you need to be patient and sympathetic with the results that this might yield. Just as you might find that getting work completed is much less of a struggle, distributed databases may also lead to unexpected roadblocks.

Questionable Security

Most IT departments are used to securing a singular and centralized database. By extension, security measures tend to be equally singular and less complex. When you have a distributed database, though, you need to worry about securing important documents and files in multiple locations. This means that information can become increasingly less secure: a major disadvantage in a working environment. This is not to say that information is completely insecure; however, additional security concerns do arise.

If you are considering implementing a distributed database, it is very important that you consider both sides of the coin.

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