Choosing The Right Database For Your Project

Not all databases are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can cause more problems than it solves. In this talk, Susan Vanderford will walk us through the big-picture differences between major database types and what kinds of projects they’re best suited for. From relational to document-based to key-value stores and beyond, you’ll get a clearer idea of what’s out there and how to make the right call for your next build.

This session is perfect for developers, engineers, and anyone who’s ever wondered whether they’re really using the right tool for the job. No deep dive into indexes or query optimization here: just a solid, high-level look at the options and how to think through your decision-making process.

👨🏻‍💻 SPEAKER: Susan Vanderford
Susan Vanderford is a Database Architect with a degree in Computer Science and two decades of hands-on experience designing and managing databases across multiple industries. She’s worked in retail, shipping, and medical devices, and for the past ten years has specialized in data systems for the medical insurance field.

When she’s not neck-deep in schemas and storage engines, Susan enjoys reading, gaming, and knitting or crocheting—though she claims her crafting skills are still a work in progress. She brings a sharp eye for structure, a love for clean design, and a practical mindset to every project she tackles.

🗓 AGENDA:
6:30 PM: Arrival /Networking
6:40 PM: Announcements by organizers
6:50 PM: Choosing The Right Database For Your Project
8:15 PM: End of meeting
8:30 PM: Exit to after party celebration at Patio de Leon (courtyard behind Downtown House of Pizza)

👾 JOIN US ON DISCORD

SWFL Coders, a founding member of the Tech Alliance of SWFL, shares a Discord server with other local tech groups.
Click here to join the server and look for #💻┃swfl-coders, the channel dedicated to our group's communication.