Emphasizing “NoSQL” and Service Science

Discussions of “NoSQL” naturally tend to contrast a new approach with a tired old approach. An
example is the discussion in Linux Journal [1] which focused on differentiating between these new
“non-relational” products and “traditional” (relational) systems. While enthusiasm for the new (and the
unjustified raised expectations) has often been the hallmark of information systems and computing, in
this instance the enthusiasm may be providing a poor and misleading explanation. A more careful
explanation is needed, particularly as these approaches and products may be needed to provide the
realization of many promising ideas such as those associated as with Web Services. The competing
suggestions have been the network and the hierarchical models – and these sometimes have
important shortcomings. The many suggested alternatives to “relational” have often been about
programming methods or new data types and simply do not address a philosophical approach to data.
This is not a problem as these improvements have helped everyone; however, it is important for
professionals to know the foundations of their field.