MySQL and Java are in good hands

A WHITE PAPER allays fears about the future of MySQL and Java in the hands of Oracle.

Many open sourcerors were apprehensive when Oracle acquired Sun, believing that it might neglect or smother the MySQL database and Java programming language in favour of its proprietary products.

Last year MySQL's creator even said Oracle's acquisition was like putting the fox in charge of the hen house.

However, a white paper (PDF) published by Jaspersoft reveals that most open source advocates believe Oracle will continue to support and develop its open source properties.

The survey found that three-quarters said their use of MySQL would increase or stay the same under Oracle. They also believe MySQL's development will continue under Oracle's stewardship.

For Java, nearly all said it remains popular and they will continue to use it under Oracle. Nearly 80 per cent said the Java community will remain the same or improve with Oracle at the helm.

"Overall the perception by Jaspersoft customers and community members concerning Oracle's acquisition of Sun Microsystems was positive," Jaspersoft said.

It concluded, "The good news for Oracle, and for the future of Java and MySQL, is that our survey respondents are largely giving Oracle the benefit of the doubt, for now." µ