Gaining Data Agility with Multi-Model Databases

Chapter 4. Use Cases for Multi-Model

We have already discussed some of the key benefits multi-model databases bring to the table, and some problems and complexities that they address. In this next section, we discuss some common use cases for which multi-model really shines. These use cases will bring a better understanding of when and where to use a multi-model approach, and how multi-model databases help ensure an IT system’s longevity and usefulness.

Storing and Managing Multiple Heterogeneous Data Sources

Being able to store multiple forms of data in a single database is the core advantage offered by a multi-model database. But, there’s much more that a multi-model database does for us. For example, suppose that we needed to store RDF, JSON, and XML data for searching. Storing these three types of data in three separate systems would be a complex administrative task. On top of storing the data, you also want to offer the capabilities of a search engine, increasing the administrative complexity even more. A multi-model database that supports these three types of data would not only allow us to store and search all of the data, but also allow us to administer the data in a single integrated solution. To better explain what this can mean for you and how it can reduce the complexity and cost of administering multiple disparate systems, let’s take a look at some of the features that a multi-model database offers.

First, let’s consider some of the basic administrative tasks that ...