Harmonized Data Source - Use PostgreSQL for the HDS DBMS

status: {proposed | rejected | accepted | deprecated | … | superseded by ADR-0005}

date: {YYYY-MM-DD when the decision was last updated}

deciders: entire TSC and AWG.  Not controversial

Use PostgreSQL as the database management system for a relational Harmonized Data Store

Context and Problem Statement

The Harmonized Data Store should be implemented using well known technologies and utilize open source solutions if possible.

Decision Drivers

• open source for dbms
• experience and familiarity to the community of potential developers

Considered Options

• MongoDB
• PostgreSQL
• Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL

Decision Outcome

Chosen option: "PostgreSQL", because it is open source and relational technology is familiar to most development organizations.

Consequences

• Good, because learning curve is small
• Good, because no extra cost or setup complexity

Validation

??

Pros and Cons of the Options

MongoDB

• Good, because easy to add data and extract data
• Good, because schema on write
• Bad, because experience limited in potential maintainers
• Bad, because proprietary system