Item: Amazon DynamoDB
Rating: 9
Author: Todd Burkholder

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

We currently use DynamoDB as a repository for data in our serverless environment built using AWS's Lambda functions. This is mainly a static datastore and a way to retain the information needed by that environment. DynamoDB works very well for this use case and has allowed us to create an entire application without servers using just the services within AWS. We also use DynamoDB to help manage some workflow processes we have built using Amazon's Simple Queue Service. As we process these workflows, we use DynamoDB to retain information between processes. This has been very effective and has allowed us to build complex solutions within AWS.

Pros and Cons

Store sets of data with different fields
Eliminates the need to manage the server or any infrastructure
Retrieves indexed data quickly

The interface is not intuitive and can be difficult to use. Especially for inexperienced users
There is no customization of the presentation of data, which can make it difficult to analyze records

Return on Investment

DynamoDB has had a positive impact on our ability to create complex applications in the cloud with serverless architecture
DynamoDB has improved our Infrastructure as Code model by allowing us to make the data portion of our infrastructure part of this process

Alternatives Considered

Microsoft SQL Server

DynamoDB is a great supplemental data store compared to SQL Server. We use SQL Server extensively for our primary application, however, it is sometimes overkill for small projects that just need a datastore. DynamoDB fits that bill better and is a great option for projects that do not have complex relationship needs and just need a way to story data long term.

Key Insights

Do you think Amazon DynamoDB delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with Amazon DynamoDB's feature set?

Yes

Did Amazon DynamoDB live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of Amazon DynamoDB go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Amazon DynamoDB again?

Yes

Other Software Used

Microsoft SQL Server, AWS Lambda, Microsoft Visual Studio Code

Likelihood to Recommend

DynamoDB is a great service if you are looking for a quick and easy way to store NoSQL data in the cloud and do not want to be concerned with managing the server or infrastructure. If you are already invested in AWS, the value proposition is even higher as it works very well with the other services that AWS provides.

Support Rating

I have not had to contact support for this service, however I have had to contact AWS for other services and their support has been good.

Usability

Functionally, DynamoDB has the features needed to use it. The interface is not as easy to use, which impacts its usability. Being familiar with AWS in general is helpful in understanding the interface, however it would be better if the interface more closely aligned with traditional tools for managing datastores.

Amazon DynamoDB is a great option for cloud storage

Overall Satisfaction with Amazon DynamoDB