Are Database GUI Tools Evil?

Bert Scalzo — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:01:00 GMT

There are always those DBA’s who refuse to use GUI tools because they prefer scripts. And that’s OK – it’s a personal preference. But recently I’ve seen some stuff posted on the web and sent in email blasts suggesting that people who do use DBA GUI tools like TOAD and OEM are somehow suspect as to their skill levels. And yes, I am sure there are some people who might not know Oracle very well but get along just well enough because of such tools. I’ve seen these people sometimes referred to as “posers”. I don’t fully agree. If the person using such DBA tools understands the foundational concepts and simply utilizes them to augment their productivity, then who cares if they can recite perfect syntax from memory. Managers hire people to get work done. Sometimes the how it’s done is not as important as just getting it done (and done right of course). Are DBA tools like TOAD and OEM like loaded shotguns? Yes, but in the hands of competent and knowledgeable people shotguns put food on the table. We’re not all vice presidents who might accidentally shoot our best friend in the face. J

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Are Database GUI Tools Evil?