Database Architecture
Most slow applications are really slow databases. We design schemas that fit how your data is used, tune the queries that hurt, and move data safely when things need to change.
At a glance
- Timeline
- A performance review takes 1 to 2 weeks. Larger redesigns and migrations are scoped individually.
- You get
- Schema review or design
- Query profiling and index tuning
- Data model documentation
- Tools
- PostgreSQL, MySQL, Supabase, Prisma or Drizzle
- Price
- A fixed, written quote. Free to ask.
Page reviewed October 2026
What this covers
Early database decisions are made quickly, and they're fine until the data grows. Then pages that loaded instantly take seconds, reports time out, and every new feature needs awkward workarounds because the structure doesn't fit.
For new projects, we design the schema around how the data will be read and written, not just what it contains. For existing systems, we profile real queries, find the expensive ones, and fix them with indexes, query rewrites, or targeted restructuring.
When a bigger change is needed, like splitting a table, moving to a new database, or adding multi-tenancy, we plan the migration so it can run without downtime and be rolled back if needed.
Is this right for you?
You'll get the most out of it if any of these sound familiar:
- Pages or reports get slower as your data grows.
- Your database bill keeps going up.
- Developers avoid certain changes because the schema makes them hard.
- You need to move databases or providers.
What you get
Included in a typical engagement:
- Schema review or design
- Query profiling and index tuning
- Data model documentation
- Migration planning and execution
- Backup and recovery review
- Connection pooling and scaling recommendations
How it works
A performance review takes 1 to 2 weeks. Larger redesigns and migrations are scoped individually.
Profile
We measure real query performance and resource usage.
Diagnose
We find the root causes: missing indexes, poor queries, or structural problems.
Fix
Changes are tested on a copy of production data before release.
Verify
We compare performance before and after and set up ongoing monitoring.
What affects the price
Every quote is fixed and written down before work starts. These are the things that move it:
- Database size and traffic
- Number of applications using the database
- Downtime tolerance
- Platform and hosting
Mistakes we plan around
The problems we see most often when this work is rushed:
- Adding indexes everywhere, which slows down writes.
- Running migrations on production without testing on a copy first.
- Assuming backups work without ever restoring one.
Database Architecture questions
Which database do you recommend?
PostgreSQL for most applications. It's reliable, well supported, and handles everything from simple apps to complex data. We work with MySQL and others when they're already in place.
Can you speed up our database without a rewrite?
Usually, yes. Most performance problems come from a small number of queries, and fixing those often makes a dramatic difference.
Can migrations happen without downtime?
Most can, with careful planning: running old and new structures in parallel, backfilling data, then switching over.
Do you work with managed databases?
Yes, including Supabase, AWS RDS, Google Cloud SQL, Neon, and PlanetScale.
Often paired with
Services clients commonly combine with this one.
- Web App Development
Browser-based applications for customers or staff, from first version to production.
- SaaS Development
Subscription software products with accounts, billing, and multi-tenant data done right.
- API Development
Well-documented APIs and integrations that connect your systems and partners reliably.
- Performance Monitoring
Uptime, errors, and real-visitor speed watched around the clock, with alerts that matter.
Want a quote for this?
A few sentences is enough. We'll reply within one business day with questions or a suggested next step, and a fixed quote once the scope is clear.
What you can count on
- A fixed, written quote before any work starts
- Code, domain, hosting, and analytics in your name
- A progress update every week during projects
- Monthly plans that run month to month
- A reply within one business day