And the thing is, as long as it's working Oracle is a very good database.
If you absolutely have to wring maximum performance out of a very convoluted set of joins, it's your best chance. But like any hot rod it's fucking expensive, temperamental, and good luck getting constructive help when things go wrong.
I know exactly how I feel about this.
Having worked with DBAs who have to deal with Oracle, I can sympathize with this sentiment.
And the thing is, as long as it's working Oracle is a very good database.
If you absolutely have to wring maximum performance out of a very convoluted set of joins, it's your best chance. But like any hot rod it's fucking expensive, temperamental, and good luck getting constructive help when things go wrong.