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.
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.