Our goal in testing this mixed workload solution was to simulate a consolidated database platform for use by both Oracle and SQL Server teams. Generally, consolidation of database ecosystems is less of a priority than performance and protection because the perceived risks and complexity that are involved in consolidating databases are daunting. However, the introduction of faster, more powerful CPUs and new storage technology in a tested, proven reference architecture enables businesses to consolidate databases without risk concerns.

The PowerMax 2000 storage array uses NVMe flash drives, which are significantly faster than traditional SATA solid-state drives (SSDs). NVMe flash drives provide several enhancements that accelerate storage operations, including greater parallelism and an updated bus that enables faster data transport. In testing this database platform, we created a mixed database environment using Oracle and SQL Server and a mixed workload environment including OLTP and DSS workloads. This combination of different databases and workloads simulates what a customer might encounter during a database consolidation effort.