Many businesses are finding it difficult to keep up with the data-driven demands of the digital age. As a result, they are turning to fully managed database services to help them build and scale their infrastructure.
Managed database services are a necessity for any business that wants to maintain a competitive edge. This is especially true for businesses that have high-volume data needs. But how do you know which database management system is most cost-effective for your business?
What are managed database services?
Managed database services (MDS) are a type of cloud computing service where the database is hosted and managed by a third party. In contrast to a self-hosted database, which requires the customer to maintain and manage their own database systems, servers, and operating systems, MDS are typically provided by organizations that have expertise in running databases. This allows businesses to save time and money by outsourcing the management of their database infrastructure to a third-party provider.
MDS have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they allow businesses to reduce costs while also providing increased security and control over their IT environments. Another benefit of managed database services is that they can help businesses scale as needed. As businesses grow, they may need more resources than they initially had available, so MDS can help them keep up with demand without purchasing additional infrastructure. In addition, managed database services provide increased data privacy protection, which is especially important for sensitive or confidential information.
Factors determining MDS pricing
There are several key factors that influence MDS pricing. These include:
Complexity of database: This can be determined by the number of tables, fields, and rows in a given table as well as by how many data types each row may contain. Managed database services with fewer data types and tables tend to cost less than those with more complex requirements.
Size of customer’s data set: The larger the customer’s data set, the more expensive it is to maintain. Large customers typically have larger budgets for IT, and can therefore afford more robust financial and operational controls over their data.
Length of contract: A long-term contract may be more cost-effective than a short-term one when it comes to managing costs.
For example, an MDS for a small organization with a simple requirement will be more affordable than one for a large enterprise with many customizations. The length of time you intend to use the database, plus its scale and complexity, will also impact your total cost. On top of these factors, each business needs to decide what level of managed database services best meets their needs and budget.
When comparing different options, consider how long you have been using your data and how complex it is. This will help determine which service fits your needs best. You may want to consider adding additional features, such as backups or security safeguards, as part of your monthly payments. These costs can increase over time depending on the amount of data you have.
Your industry will also play a significant role in determining your database cost. For example, a food wholesaler might not require extensive encryption or compliance features, but would likely need more frequent backups to keep their data safe. On the other hand, a healthcare provider would require their MDS to maintain certain levels of compliance to meet industry regulations.
Database Management Systems
Microsoft SQL Server
Microsoft SQL Server is a relational database management system generally used by businesses that require a high level of security, scalability, and reliability.
This server supports unlimited users, big data, and high-volume transaction, and includes support for modern technologies, like business intelligence and analytics. It also includes interoperability with Azure’s SQL service, like cloud presentation, failover, backup, and integrations with apps such as Power BI.
Microsoft SQL Server offerings include Standard, Enterprise, and Business Intelligence (BI) subscriptions. The Standard license is suitable for small businesses that want to host their own database servers, but aren’t interested in scaling up as quickly as Enterprise customers. The Enterprise license is best suited for medium enterprises that want to scale up and take advantage of more advanced features, such as partitioning and data replication. The BI license allows businesses to build advanced query tools with BI capabilities.
MySQL
MySQL is a widely used, open-source database. The benefits of MySQL include scalability, reliability, and availability, as well as support for virtually any type of application.
Many MDS providers use MySQL to host their customers’ applications. Customers can access their stored data from the applications without having to rely on a separate database server. MySQL is easy to set up and use, even for those who are not experienced database administrators.
However, as your data storage and access requirements grow, MySQL may not be flexible enough to handle them.
PostgreSQL
PostgreSQL is an open-source database software that is compatible with MySQL. A number of MDS providers offer versions of PostGreSQL, making it a popular database technology for MDS.
PostgreSQL is well-suited for companies that need to store a large amount of data. The open-source nature of this solution also makes it easy to work with and to scale, which is ideal for large organizations that need to store large amounts of information.
Find your database solution with the experts
Managed database services provide businesses with the ability to scale their database infrastructure as needed, while also providing data privacy protection and other features. Whether you need a single database server to host your website or multiple database servers to run your business, a managed database services provider can save you time and money and ensure that your database environment is secure and meets regulatory and industry standards.
I didn’t fully understand what managed database services actually meant up until a few months ago. I didn’t get how outsourcing this could save money but now I do understand. Actually, I think you could save quite a bit of money and also use professionals while doing so. Will give it a try soon.
Good article! Thank you for going into detail about what factors might contribute to changes in MDS pricing. It was helpful to figure out some things for our company. I am sending you an email for a quote. Looking forward to your reply.