SQL Queries on Smalltalk Objects

First Name: James
Last Name: Foster
Type: Talk

Abstract: 
Object-oriented programming (OOP) languages are very popular and relational database management systems (RDBMSs) are likewise common, but there is a well-known "impedance mismatch" when they interact. Much work has gone into bridging that gap by allowing objects from an OOP application to be saved in an RDBMS (see GLORP). On the other hand, comparatively little effort has gone into presenting objects from an OOP environment or application directly to RDBMS tools. This functionality would be useful because many RDBMS tools exist that simplify the end-user's exploration of data, but that capability is not available until the data has been stored in the RDBMS. This functionality is one of the most common high-level feature-requests for GemStone/S by those who are evaluating it as a database (“Can I use my familiar query tools?”).

In this talk we will discuss a project to create a library that parses SQL queries (using PetitParser) and evaluates Smalltalk code that builds a result sets to be returned to the external tools. 

Bio: 
As a junior-high student in 1971, James discovered the local university’s computer center and a life-long obsession with computers began. He was introduced to Smalltalk/V for the Mac in the mid-90s, and became a Smalltalk bigot. James is Director of Operations for GemTalk Systems and is a passionate advocate for GemStone and all things Smalltalk.

Slides: http://www.slideshare.net/esug/sql-queries-on-smalltalk-objects
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=56956-yPofs