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Syed Umer Tariq
Syed Umer Tariq

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Dynamic Columns in Mariadb (Part 2)

In this part we will see why we use dynamic columns in mariadb basically its advantages along with the limitations of using dynamic columns

Benefits of Dynamic Columns

  • Flexibility: Dynamic columns allow for the storage of complex and variable data structures in a single column. This can simplify the database schema and reduce the number of tables and columns required.

  • Scalability: Dynamic columns can scale to handle large and complex datasets, as they can store a wide range of data structures and formats.

  • Simplified Data Management: Dynamic columns can simplify data management by allowing for the creation of more flexible and adaptable database schemas. This can reduce the need for complex ETL processes and data transformations

Limitations of Using Dynamic Columns

Like every feature dynamic columns also comes up with some trade offs.

  • Complexity: Dynamic columns can be more complex to work with than traditional columns, as they require the use of specialized functions and operators to manipulate and retrieve data.

  • Storage Overhead: Dynamic columns require additional storage overhead to store the binary data associated with the column. This can increase the storage requirements of the database.

  • Limited Compatibility: Dynamic columns are a feature specific to MariaDB, and may not be compatible with other database systems or tools. This can limit the portability and interoperability of data stored in dynamic columns.

Conclusion

Dynamic columns are very important and useful feature of mariadb which can help create flexible schemas through which variable data structures can be stored in a single columns. They can help in simplifying database design and reduce the need for complex ETL processes and data transformations. But at the same time it is really important to realize that dynamic columns should be used by first analyzing and understanding what type of data would be stored and using dynamic columns is beneficial or not as it also comes up with trade-offs.

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