For the first time, Thinkwise supports an open source database with the introduction of PostgreSQL support. PostgreSQL is one of the most popular open source, enterprise-grade, relational database technologies worldwide. It is also not owned by a major tech company, but by the Postgres Global Development Group.
With Indicium built on .NET technology, Universal on React, and now PostgreSQL available as a database option, organizations can build their Thinkwise Application environment on open source technologies. For independent software vendors developing products using the Thinkwise platform, or for government organizations with strict sovereignty requirements, this level of independence is valuable. It ensures that critical IT infrastructure remains under your control.
The financial implications are also worth noting. As an open source solution, PostgreSQL eliminates database licensing fees. For organizations deploying databases on substantial server infrastructure, this can result in meaningful cost reductions.
PostgreSQL brings substantial business advantages, starting with unprecedented flexibility and control over your deployment environment. Its versatility means it can run on virtually any infrastructure, from fully air gapped on-premise deployments to any public cloud provider. A PostgreSQL database can run on a local Windows Server and be seamlessly migrated to AWS, or to Azure Database for PostgreSQL, without fundamental architectural changes. This portability provides organizations with freedom to adapt their infrastructure strategy as business needs evolve.
Another practical advantage lies in PostgreSQL's widespread adoption. As one of the most popular database technologies worldwide, it benefits from a substantial ecosystem. There are extensive resources available online, which simplifies troubleshooting and learning.
When to use which database technology?
With the addition of PostgreSQL, the Thinkwise platform now supports four different database types. Each has distinct characteristics that may suit different scenarios.
Microsoft SQL Server has been a common choice for Thinkwise applications, partly because the Software Factory also runs on it. SQL Server can run across various systems, from local installations to scalable cloud solutions on Azure (or other providers). Existing organizational knowledge and current Microsoft licensing agreements are important factors to consider.
Oracle DB and IBM Db2 are proprietary database technologies designed for the enterprise market. These options are particularly relevant when modernizing existing applications that already run on these platforms, or when your organization has established expertise with these technologies.
PostgreSQL is the most advanced open source database solution and runs on virtually any platform. The absence of licensing fees can significantly reduce costs, particularly for new applications. Its open source nature also provides sovereignty benefits, allowing organizations to remain in complete control of their data without vendor dependencies. For new projects we think this is the most logical option.
A look ahead
We are most certainly not done with our PostgreSQL ambitions yet. First, we will implement the remaining Platform features. Next, we will enable the Intelligent Application Manager to run on PostgreSQL as well. This will allow organizations to run their entire Test, Acceptance and Production environments on PostgreSQL. We will release IAM on PostgreSQL later this year. There are currently no plans to convert the Software Factory itself to PostgreSQL.
While we are at it, we are exploring the possibility of creating database technology-agnostic SF Models. The focus is on enabling code written in one SQL dialect to be automatically translated into other SQL dialects using AI enrichments. This would open up the possibility of migrating existing models to different database technologies. We aim to share more information about this development later this year.
And provided there is significant customer demand, we also intend to offer PostgreSQL support on the Thinkwise Cloud. If you are interested, please reach out!