The StackOverflow Reference

Customers ask for references when choosing a cloud data warehouse platform. Who else is using it, and at what scale? They often overlook a more useful and open alternative - the online technical reference.

I find that StackOverflow is a great place to explore the comparative challenges being faced by users of data warehouse platforms, and the depth to which those users are supported by its vendor and community.

• How many posts per day?
• How quickly do questions get answered?
• How many questions remain unanswered?
• Are questions about problems making it work, or how to solve queries?
• How often do you see ‘not supported’ or ‘work-around’ instead of simple answers?

Considering the answers to these questions will help you to quickly understand the technical maturity and capability of the data warehouse platform, and make informed decisions on the aspects you need to validate during a proof of concept.

By the way, if you’re looking for customer references, here is a great place to start.