For the relational database to keep its robust role in IT, we must spread our knowledge and database expertise as widely as possible. We must be helpful and tolerant. I believe that in learning about relational databases such as SQL Server, we should allow, perhaps encourage, occasional messy experimental play. After all, when you are learning about pottery, you can cover yourself accidentally in wet clay at the potter's wheel, without recriminations, as long as you clear up afterwards, or you can use the wrong sort of clay, or fire things at the wrong temperature, or break all sorts of rules, as long as you don't expect to be able to sell the results. Experimentation is a key to learning. With pottery, the only downside is having to feign joy and pleasure when you get one of these experiments as a Christmas present.

Relational databases require a different way of thinking about data, and there is no avoiding the pain of unfamiliarity. However, we do ourselves no favors by creating an exaggerated mystique. With databases, we do the equivalent of making beginners attempt exquisite raku pots, and insult them like 'drunken masters' when they get it wrong or try to experiment. We invent cast-iron rules that we reinforce with blood-curdling myths about the consequences of disobedience. It isn't the way to learn anything. Of course, it is rare for experiments to result in any sort of breakthrough, but the average developers are far less resentful of the dogmatism of the database expert if they are allowed to experiment, and convince themselves of the truth of what is being said.

When in a working environment, where we get the whole communication process wrong, it is no wonder that Developers look longingly at alternative database systems just to get the development work done. I've done it myself when vital work to get an application working was blocked by an Oracle DBA.

The truth is that a modern relational database is a remarkably tolerant and malleable system that is capable of a huge range of data storage and manipulation, as long as you keep an open mind. They require an effort to master, but relational databases are, in fact, easier to grasp than many of their NoSQL rivals. Let's not perpetuate the myth that it is difficult and dangerous.

Phil Factor.