The Toughest Challenges and Problems with Oracle Database

As of today, the Oracle database is still the most popular database out there, with a rating score of 1,240.88. Considering all of the factors – its powerful and comprehensive features that cater to large-scale enterprise needs, it comes as no surprise.

However, having managed and used numerous Oracle databases over time, we’ve observed several recurring frustrations — problems with Oracle database that can pose significant challenges for its users. From the complex and often opaque licensing structure to high costs and aggressive sales tactics, taking care of the Oracle ecosystem requires constant awareness and a willingness to adapt, at any second. 

The Story of Locks by Application Issues

On the 20th of April, query load times usually ranged from 12 to 15 seconds per snapshot, but there was a notable spike exceeding 2,000 seconds during certain periods. This anomaly suggested a deeper issue, prompting a detailed investigation. By examining the correlation between locks and application issues, executions, disk reads, and buffer writes, a significant overlap was found between increased query durations and intensified locking issues. Accessing the lock history tab provided detailed data on each lock event, including the time, duration, and specific database elements affected.

Why Oracle Changes the Execution Plan for a Query?

Understanding why Oracle changes the execution plan for a query can save you a lot of time and headaches. Statistics, data distribution (even without updated statistics), schema changes, and much more — There are numerous factors behind the changes of the execution plan. Having a grasp on all of them helps maintain efficient and stable query performance.

BLOG – 10 Mistakes Committed by Inexperienced Programmers in Relation to Databases

From the basics of understanding SQL and its impact on databases, to the importance of maintaining clear Service Level Agreements and performance baselines, this article sheds light on critical areas often overlooked by newcomers.

How can you speed up database read queries

Before getting into the technicalities of speeding up your database read queries, the first step is always to have a clear understanding of what exactly you need. This might sound straightforward, but inefficient queries often begin with uncertainty about the data requirements. Knowing exactly what information is necessary for your application or analysis not only helps in crafting precise queries but also prevents the database from retrieving extraneous information, which can significantly slow down performance.

Data Observability

Too often when looking at the data we see just numbers – columns and rows that might seem meaningful on the surface but lack depth without proper context. Data observability changes this perspective. This approach is about understanding what the numbers really tell us about the health, accuracy, and vitality of our data systems.

Data observability isn’t just one thing – it’s an ability, or rather a way of monitoring your data’s health, accuracy, and overall usefulness. It’s what equips data teams with the essential tools they need in order to make sure that the data that’s driving business decisions is not only there but also high-quality, well-structured, and up-to-date.