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RubyConf AU 2014: http://www.rubyconf.org.au

A detailed, deep-diving, in-the-deep-end and occasionally humorous whirlwind introduction and analysis of a suite of modern (and sometimes delightfully archaic) database technologies. How they work, why they work, and when you might want them to work in your Ruby and Rails application.
At no extra charge I will also attempt to explain the oft-misunderstood CAP theorem, using databases as a device for understanding the trade offs and compromises inherent in building complex distributed systems.
Including but not limited to:
PostgreSQL
Redis
Cassandra
Hyperdex
MongoDb
Riak
Animated Gifs
The goal of the talk is to shed light on the wide range of options outside of the "traditional" PostgreSQL or MySQL. Ruby on Rails has a rather myopic focus on particular patterns of database interaction and technology on which lead developers to overlook other tools that may be really well suited for particular use-cases.

Toby put the slides from his talk here: slid.es/tobyhede/an-ode-to-17-database-in-39-minutes-rubyconf-2014/

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In this talk titled "An Ode to 17 Databases in 39 minutes" by Toby Hede at RubyConf AU 2014, the speaker explores a diverse array of database technologies alongside the complexities of distributed systems, utilizing humor and analogies to engage the audience. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding various database options beyond the commonly used PostgreSQL and MySQL, highlighting when these alternatives could be beneficial in Ruby on Rails applications. The delivery is punctuated with animated GIFs and references to Dungeons and Dragons to illustrate points, making the talk both informative and entertaining. Key points covered include:

- **Database Fundamentals**: An overview of ACID properties (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) and the CAP theorem (Consistency, Availability, Partition tolerance), explaining their significance and the trade-offs involved in database design.
- **Diverse Database Technologies**: The session reviews various databases, starting with PostgreSQL as a reliable relational database, followed by MySQL, DynamoDB, Riak, Cassandra, and others, explaining their unique strengths and applications:
  - PostgreSQL: Strength in consistency and relational capabilities, especially with JSON support.
  - MySQL: Ubiquity and performance, with alternatives like MariaDB and Percona Server offering community-driven enhancements.
  - DynamoDB and Riak: Examined for their innovative approaches to distributed key-value storage and tunable consistency.
  - Cassandra: Noted for its distribution design and real-world application by companies like Netflix.
  - Redis: Highlighted for its simplicity and in-memory data structure versatility.
  - Neo4j and MongoDB: Discussed for their unique approaches to data relationships and scalability, respectively.
  - Other databases include RethinkDB, Elasticsearch, and Hadoop, where the speaker mentions the importance of understanding their architectures and functionalities.
- **Conclusion and Takeaways**: Toby emphasizes the evolution of databases, encouraging developers to broaden their perspectives on available technologies while acknowledging the challenges posed by distributed systems. The key takeaway is the recognition that while traditional databases like PostgreSQL and MySQL remain valuable, understanding the full range of modern databases can empower more effective data management in diverse applications. The talk concludes with praise for Elasticsearch's indexing capabilities and a reminder of the importance of experimenting with new database paradigms.

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