Matisse

What Matisse is

Matisse is a self-hosted database that combines native support for objects, XML, and SQL. Its object model includes persistence, inheritance, encapsulation, polymorphism, unique object identifiers, and links in both directions between objects. For reporting and analysis, it supports ANSI SQL and provides ODBC and JDBC connectivity. Listed languages include SQL, Java, C++, VB.NET, C#, Perl, Python, PHP, Eiffel, C, ODL, and DDL; integrations include Visual Studio .NET, JBuilder, NetBeans, Forte, and Rational Rose. Dynamic schema evolution lets users add or remove classes and properties while the database stays online. Matisse describes automatic disk mirroring and database replication as ways to support availability and fault tolerance. Data transformation services combine graphical tools, command-line utilities, and programming interfaces for extracting, transforming, and consolidating data. The company says the database can run with minimal administration and without a dedicated DBA. Matisse is aimed at real-time application and data-management needs in healthcare, life sciences, financial services, defense, and manufacturing. It runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Plans include a limited-feature free developer trial, a $245 one-time embedded license for one user, and a $1,570 one-time Standard Edition deployment license for two users.

Who it suits

Matisse suits object developers and database administrators building scalable applications and services, especially where object, XML, and SQL support are needed together. Its listed industry focus includes healthcare, life sciences, financial services, defense, and manufacturing.

Limits

The free Developer trial version has limited features. Matisse Lite is a one-user embedded version; the Standard Edition license is for two users.

Getting started

1. Visit the Matisse website.
2. Choose the free Developer trial version or a paid plan.
3. Use the Developers section for software, documentation, and FAQs.
4. Run Matisse on Linux, macOS, or Windows.

Verdict

Choose Matisse if your application needs an object database with SQL access, online schema evolution, and self-hosted deployment. The free developer trial offers a way to start, while paid choices begin with the one-user embedded license; the listed plans may not suit deployments needing more users.