Re: Guide to PostgreSQL source tree

> Hi all,
>
> For a few months now I've been thinking about whether or not a guide
> ('line-by-line') to the Postgres source tree would be of any value.
>
> Such a guide would, most probably, trace an 'ultimate' query (ie,
> one which requires the use of all source level functionality) through the
> source as well as reference appendices guides to underlying functionality
> (backend lib, transactions, macros) and client interfaces (inc. FE/BE
> protocol, internals of the libs etc), procedural language interfaces, SPI
> and any other part of the source I have left out.

I wonder if we should just work down from where we are now. We have the
FAQ, backend flowchard, and "PostgreSQL Internals through Pictures" that
I wrote, plus a presentation by Tom Lane. Where do we go from there?

> Secondly, where Postgres really out performs proprietary databases is in
> its source being open. Problems which cause major functionality problems
> and downtime in critical vendor installations could often easily be
> resolved if developers had the source. I think a thorough source guide
> would go some way to bolstering the appeal of Postgres to such developers
> whilst countering some of the arguments for throwing hefty sums of money
> at support.

I didn't realize that was happening.

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