At SingleStore, we see an in-memory, distributed approach to big data as the path forward to cost-effective deployments. Recently, Gartner released a report titled “Five Data Persistence Dilemmas That Will Keep CIOs Up at Night”, which reinforces this approach to data management. The report outlines three key impacts of utilizing new technologies across Hybrid Transaction/Analytical Processing (HTAP) systems that use in-memory processing, the compromises of NoSQL DBMSs, and the growing importance of agile cloud computing approaches. Utilizing HTAP reduces the need for separate dedicated environments and shortens the time to value for new data, but requires process compromises and changes to applications to maximize ROI. NoSQL DBMSs compromise a priori data models and strong levels of consistency to offer high-throughput operations and scale-out architectures. Agile deployment approaches like cloud computing present new opportunities that IT leaders and line-of-business heads must seize. The five dilemmas covered in the report generate questions for CIOs seeking to maximize opportunities with HTAP, scalable SQL databases, and flexible cloud deployments. HTAP collapses the single database model and allows for new classes of applications, while fully realizing its benefits requires thorough cost and capacity planning. In-memory databases like SingleStore offer scalability, performance, simplicity, and SQL. Multi-model databases support structured SQL and semi-structured data types like JSON, providing a balance between structure and flexibility. SingleStore can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud, offering deployment choice. Gartner's report emphasizes the importance of exploring HTAP, scalable SQL, and cloud deployments with in-memory databases like SingleStore.