MySQL, once more...

I did get some feedback from my previous article on MySQL in the November Insider (http://www.iiug.org/news/insider/insider_nov05.html#12) and I must admit some clarification may be required. There were mainly 2 sets of questions.

Do you think MySQL tools are better than ServerStudio?

No! ServerStudio is superior to most of the database tools I have seen so far. My statement was that "both (MySQL) tools are far beyond what one can find in excellent AGS ServerStudio"; please understand that beyond should really be behind, at the back, in the rear... I used "beyond" in a sarcastic way. ServerStudio (http://www.serverstudio.com/) has incredible features which provide excellent benefits to the user, the user being either a developer or a DBA. The new features of 6.0 include a graphical navigation in the database, á la hypertext, which is really great.

I do not want to hurt anyone (anymore?); I use ServerStudio as a developer, not as a DBA. DBAs may also want to give a try to IIUG sponsor CobraSonic.s tools (http://www.cobrasonic.com/).

Why do you use MySQL?

I use MySQL with coordination of a CMS package called Joomla (http://www.joomla.org). Joomla is a fantastic piece of Open Source software, which unfortunately runs only on MySQL. However, now that a PHP driver for IDS is getting really close to shipment (http://www.iiug.org/news/insider/insider_dec05.html#7), I am calling for volunteers to update the PHP database code for Joomla to support IDS. Bringing Joomla to IDS will create a very neat way of combining two very powerful products. If you are interested, send me an e-mail at jgp@iiug.org (IBMers having spare time are also welcome and we will protect their anonymity).

Have a great and fantastic 2006!

Jean Georges Perrin
jgp@iiug.org