Factors influencing the database selection for B2C web applications.

Exploring NoSQL data modeling and expressiveness of query options.

Abstract

TBD

Activities

1. Literature review – NoSql databases

• Exploring and documenting different types of NoSQL databases (DBs) including key-value, document-based, column-based, and graph-based data stores.
• A detailed classification of NoSQL DB systems within different categories and sub-categories.
• Documentation of benefits, features (including different query options), and shortcomings of these DBs. (Get feedback from DB chair)

2. Use-case scenario identification

• Identify concrete (but generic) use-case scenarios in the context of web applications for its implementation using different DBs.
• Initial thoughts – e-commerce; CRM; EAM-KPI catalog; SEBA master projects; common use-cases used by most of the DB systems;
• Capture requirements based on the usage scenarios for e.g. modelling graphs, analyzing text, etc.

3. Identify key constructs

• Primary key; Composite keys; Data types; Modeling 1:n, m:n relations; Joins; Normalization; Aggregation; Schema evolution; CRUD operations; Text search: Full text; regex; Indexing; Parameterized queries; Filters; Row and cell-level security; Transaction support; Social network operations; Scaling – sharding; Replication; ORM support …

4. Implementation

• For the identified use-case, demonstrate the implementation (source code) of the key constructs using different DBs.

• For properties related to query performance – link to existing benchmark studies

5. Lessons learnt

• For each DB system, create a separate chapter (web-pages) and document

                   - schema definition

                   - implementation details 

                         - from initial setup to execution of queries

                         - of the identified constructs

                         - challenges

                         - developer-friendliness,

                         - ease-of-implementation

                         - web application friendliness (data formats - json) …

Roadmap

Note

This Master thesis is in collaboration with the Database Systems chair (Prof. Dr. Thomas Neumann).

Requirements

• Basic knowledge related to NoSql databases
• Practical experience developing web applications (SEBA Master course, Web application practical)