Graph Database Evaluation (Neo4j Community 1.8)

Overview

A hands-on evaluation of the Neo4j graph database. The archive holds an unpacked Neo4j Community 1.8 distribution and its source tarball, an R&D/learning sandbox rather than a built application.

Why It Exists

To explore graph-database modelling (nodes, relationships, Cypher queries) as an alternative to relational stores for highly connected data such as social graphs, a natural companion to the social-network and messaging builds of the same era.

What We Built

Nothing was built on top; the folder is the downloaded Neo4j Community 1.8 server (neo4j-community-1.8/ plus the -unix.tar.gz archive). It captures a self-directed evaluation of the database engine itself.

Technologies & Approach

Neo4j Community Edition 1.8 (an early-2010s release), a Java-based native graph database queried with Cypher. Running the standalone server locally was the standard way to build with graph data at the time.

Outcome / Impact

A technology evaluation. It proved out the developer’s interest in and exposure to graph databases and non-relational data modelling early in their career.

Capabilities Demonstrated

• Evaluating and running a graph database (Neo4j)
• Awareness of graph data modelling and Cypher
• Self-directed technology R&D