Oracle and Linux - A Match Made in Application Heaven

Oracle should tout the advantages of the new Cluster File System for Linux. These include: higher performance and manageability, and near-mainframe-like redundancy. Case Studies. Oracle should publicize as many case studies as possible of the Cluster File System for Linux among "real-world" applications and not just elite corporate accounts. Positioning. Oracle should highlight the inexpensive nature of Linux and Linux licenses, particularly with respect to SQL .NET Server 6.0 licenses that cost significantly more. Linux Installation Tools and Wizards. Oracle also should tout the functionality of Rasta, its installation wizard for Linux. Unlike Windows, Linux does not come equipped with an embedded installation wizard. Rasta is available as a free, separate download; as is Timbo, a messaging catalog that provides database internationalization and a Unix-like user file system. Patches to FireWire, the networking standard used in clustered servers, are also available for free.

Competitive Recommendations

Linux and the Oracle Cluster File System for Linux are still relative unknowns. Service and Support may be spotty and weak in some geographic locations. Lack of skilled Linux IT administrators still may be an issue in many regions. Requirement to train end users may represent a financial burden for some companies.

Enterprise Recommendations

Try It. Corporate customers who find they cannot afford the price hikes of the new Microsoft 6.0 licensing program that impact the SQL .NET Server, as well as companies that have been on the fence with Linux, are well advised to test the Oracle Cluster File System for Linux. Negotiate. Whether you are a longtime Oracle customer or a potential new customer, speak frankly with your Oracle sales representative or reseller to get a better deal. Oracle is very motivated to establish itself as the premier supplier of Linux databases. Construct a Business Case Justification. Before migrating to any new technology a corporation should first determine the business justification for the migration. Make a realistic list of what benefits your organization hopes to gain from the move. In the case of the Oracle Cluster File System for Linux, typical advantages would include: reduced cost of ownership, improved performance and reliability, and open-source, non-proprietary software. Perform a Thorough Cost Analysis. While Linux in general and Oracle's Cluster File System for Linux are both indisputably cheaper than the rival Microsoft SQL .NET Server, they are not free. Your organization should consider all the costs - obvious and hidden. These includes technical training for your applicable IT staffers, third-party add-on products, as well as the cost of purchasing additional server hardware, and management and security packages for Linux and the Oracle Cluster File System for Linux. If your firm has little or no Linux expertise, it also should calculate the cost of hiring a systems integrator or outsourcer.