Quick takeaways

• Managing custom fields in a multi-tenant system remains a challenge, with JSON columns, computed columns, and EAV tables all presenting limitations and scalability concerns.

• Choosing a database involves weighing the benefits of unique features and indexing options against familiarity and ease of use, especially in real-world business applications.

• The appeal of using JSON columns in databases for flexibility and custom fields is tempered by the difficulty of indexing and searching efficiently within the JSON data without compromising performance.

• While acknowledging the potential benefits of Postgres and gin indexes for JSON columns, the host prefers the familiarity and manageability of MySQL for reliable and scalable database solutions in real business applications.

Deep dives