The Case for Random Access I/O

Lance is a new file format designed to improve support for random access, challenging the traditional view that random access is slower and more expensive than linear access in columnar formats. The argument against random access often relies on cloud storage limitations, such as IOPs and cost per IOP, but the post argues these are outdated and can be mitigated with advances like caching layers. Lance aims to overcome these challenges by allowing both row and column storage patterns within a single format, enhancing flexibility for varied query patterns, such as those needed in AI model training and inference. While acknowledging some drawbacks like increased CPU costs and limitations in certain encodings, Lance offers solutions through smart scheduling and innovative encodings to maintain performance. The format seeks to provide efficient workflows without adding complexity or storage costs, addressing the need for both random and sequential data access in modern data engineering.

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