Item: Couchbase Server
Rating: 8
Author: Shiv Shivakumar

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

Couchbase is being used as a NoSQL database in the organization for unstructured data, big data, and streaming data. Since we are in the medical device/bio-pharma sectors, we get a lot of unstructured data including data from sensors installed in the equipment that help us monitor the health/performance of the equipment as well as doing parts replacement/predictive/preventive maintenance on a regular basis.

Pros and Cons

It performs the role of a key value store very well.
It can be used as a system of engagement when architected properly.
Provides reliable performance with scalability and adequate security.

More practical/flexible licensing terms when used in a container environment.
Comprehending logs and taking action at times is a very difficult activity.
I wish Couchbase could be used as a system of record, I would be excited to see this happen.

Return on Investment

Highly available
Fast deployment
Easy management for the most part
Secure and scalable for growth

Scalability

We have been growing in this database for the past 3+ years now and it does a good job of scaling up without too much difficulty/effort involved. In addition, the vendor provides excellent support when it comes to configuration and scaling up support. We have not had any real setbacks during the scaling up process.

Performance

The nimbleness of the product helps it really perform well vis-a-vis its competitors and also the fact that it is well documented provides the extra confidence. As mentioned in the previous sections, the vendors provide excellent support as and when needed and is very responsive to requests/enhancements that are requested for.

Alternatives Considered

We evaluated Cassandra and Couchbase alongside each other before going ahead with Couchbase finally. The main driver for the final decision was the simplicity and nimbleness of Couchbase architecture. It was faster to deploy and Couchbase was faster in performance when used in a large data set environment including streaming data.

Likelihood to Recommend

It can be used as a NoSQL database and a system of engagement, especially when the reliability of performance/scalability and security are paramount. It is a nimble database when compared to some of its competitors and is highly available. In addition, horizontal growth is also easily achievable with this product. The vendor provides excellent support as and when needed.

Good performance along with great vendor support

Overall Satisfaction with Couchbase Data Platform