Exploring DuckDB: A relational database built for online analytical processing

Thoughtworks Technology Podcast

There are no shortage of options when it comes to relational databases. While the likes of PostgreSQL have proven enduring, even as the market has evolved, for data scientists and data engineers that need to manage and query particularly complex or large data sets, the most popular databases aren't always right for the job. Thankfully, this is where projects like DuckDB can help. Built for what's called 'vectorized query execution', it's well-suited to the demands of online analytical processing (OLAP).

To get a deeper understanding of DuckDB and how the product has developed, on this episode of the Technology Podcast, hosts Ken Mugrage and Lilly Ryan are joined by Thoughtworker Ned Letcher and Thoughtworks alumnus Simon Aubury. Ned and Simon explain the thinking behind DuckDB, the design decisions made by the project and how its being used by data practitioners in the wild.

Learn more about DuckDB: https://duckdb.org/why_duckdb.html

Explore Ned and Simon's book Getting Started with DuckDB: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Started-DuckDB-practical-efficiently/dp/1803241004