Migrations - The Hardest Actual Problem in Computer Science

Explore the challenges and solutions of software migrations in this 51-minute conference talk from YOW! 2022. Delve into the complexities of making changes to always-on systems, learn from DoorDash's migration experiences, and discover strategies to ease the migration process. Gain insights on good abstractions, the surprising "third option" beyond dual writes, and understand why migrations are considered one of the hardest problems in computer science. Benefit from Matt Ranney's expertise as he shares learnings from various migrations and offers practical advice to minimize pain points in your own migration projects.

Intro
Why Are Migrations Hard?
DoorDash Migration Example
Making Changes to Always-On Systems
This Sounds Bad
Database "Dual Write"
Surprising Third Option
What Did DD Do?
Ways to Make Migrations Easier
Good Abstractions
Why Is It REALLY So Hard?