FAO Selects MySQL as Open Source Database Standard

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has selected MySQL as its open source server-side database standard. The organization plans to migrate up to 80% of its technical information systems to MySQL. This decision was made after evaluating PostgreSQL and MySQL as possible alternatives. MySQL proved to be easier to set up, easier to manage, and has become a widely-deployed standard in developing countries. The MySQL professional services organization delivered a comprehensive mentoring program including training, consulting, and workshops to enable the FAO IT team to learn best practices and configure the systems according to their specific needs. The FAO has also subscribed to the MySQL Network subscription offering, which includes certified software, production support, and proactive advisor services. This decision by the FAO will help them accomplish their mandate in terms of information dissemination and capacity building while achieving significant internal cost efficiencies.