SingleStore Reviews

Don't believe the hype: the product (a distributed in-memory database) isn't all that remarkable. There are many other contenders in a similar space (many open-source) with similar feature sets that are far more reliable and better stress-tested. Do your research before deciding to invest your talents here. Of course, the product isn't terrible, so it's not surprising MemSQL has gained a small market share. Unfortunately, the company is terribly managed. This is most notable on the business side, where those in charge have surrounded themselves with sycophantic cheerleaders. As a result, they've created an environment where the agility so necessary to a successful startup is almost impossible. When fundamental problems arise, management will generally avoid the core issues and hire a new employee as a band-aid. This "growth" is then touted as a sign of health — when it is actually a result of dysfunction. The problems with management are so obvious that they create a toxic internal environment. In my first week at MemSQL, I realized that a sizable fraction of my co-workers felt contempt for the company and were actively looking to leave ASAP. The turnover rate is astronomical (even for a startup). Not only is this detrimental to morale, but it is truly horrible for business — (as it takes over a year to train each new employee to expert status). MemSQL does pay well, have a cool office, and offer various other fun perks. But keep in mind that this is because they have to — since the majority of their employees don't really want to be working there.

Management immaturity No clear vision Inability to win new enterprise customers Product lacks sufficient SQL surface area coverage Customer experience is suffering due to lack of clear support roles