Inspired by a recent discussion, I’m questioning our heavy reliance on databases. Can we effectively replace them with basic file storage, in-memory caching, and simple indexing? Let’s explore simpler solutions.
In my experience, relying solely on basic file storage may seem appealing for small-scale projects, but it often leads to management issues as projects grow. While simple file systems and in-memory caches work well for initial prototypes, they tend to fall short when requirements evolve to include concurrency, data integrity, and complex querying. Databases, even lightweight ones, provide a structured approach with built-in optimization, making long-term maintenance more sustainable. Transitioning from file storage to a well-designed database system can simplify development and enhance performance as application demands increase.
for basic apps, files can suffice if data is small and you don’t need heavy concurrency or queries. sometimes adding a db just overcomplicates things when simplicity is key. consider your project scale and requirements before choosing.