Which of the following is a common feature of column-oriented databases?

Which of the following is a common feature of column-oriented databases?

• A. Strictly flat data structures
• B. Optimized for complex data types including images and text
• C. Supports only fixed schema
• D. Less flexibility in data representation

Answer: (B)

Column-oriented databases are designed to handle large volumes of data while facilitating efficient data retrieval and analysis. One of their key features is the optimization for complex data types, including images and text. This optimization arises from the way data is stored and accessed within the database; each column can be compressed and accessed separately, which allows for better performance when querying large datasets that include varied data types. In contrast, strictly flat data structures and the restriction to fixed schema are more characteristic of traditional row-oriented databases, which often require uniformity in data types and structures. Additionally, less flexibility in data representation typically detracts from the advantages seen in column-oriented databases. Hence, the ability of column-oriented databases to efficiently manage and query complex data types distinctly sets them apart and is a strong reason why this option is correct.

Column-oriented databases are designed to handle large volumes of data while facilitating efficient data retrieval and analysis. One of their key features is the optimization for complex data types, including images and text. This optimization arises from the way data is stored and accessed within the database; each column can be compressed and accessed separately, which allows for better performance when querying large datasets that include varied data types.

In contrast, strictly flat data structures and the restriction to fixed schema are more characteristic of traditional row-oriented databases, which often require uniformity in data types and structures. Additionally, less flexibility in data representation typically detracts from the advantages seen in column-oriented databases. Hence, the ability of column-oriented databases to efficiently manage and query complex data types distinctly sets them apart and is a strong reason why this option is correct.