DocumentDB Joins Linux Foundation for Open Collaboration

DocumentDB, a PostgreSQL-based document database, becomes part of the Linux Foundation to foster open standards and developer-driven innovation.

PostgreSQL-Based DocumentDB Gains Momentum

Earlier this year, DocumentDB was introduced as an open-source document database built on PostgreSQL. Initially launched as a pair of extensions, the project quickly evolved into a full-featured solution with enhanced JSON/BSON support and document-style queries. Compatibility with MongoDB drivers and tools has made it accessible for developers familiar with NoSQL environments. Designed for high availability and Kubernetes-based deployment, DocumentDB targets mission-critical applications with a streamlined setup process.

Within months, the project attracted nearly 2,000 GitHub stars and active engagement from the developer community. Feature requests, issue reports, and discussions have steadily increased, particularly among PostgreSQL enthusiasts. The database’s permissive MIT license encourages broad adoption and contribution. Its architecture leverages the reliability of PostgreSQL while extending its capabilities for document-based data models.

Linux Foundation Membership and Strategic Goals

DocumentDB has now joined the Linux Foundation, marking a significant step toward establishing a vendor-neutral, open standard for document databases. The move aligns with Microsoft’s broader commitment to open-source development and its role as a major contributor to the foundation. By joining, DocumentDB gains an independent identity and a collaborative environment for contributions from other database providers. The long-term goal includes developing a standard comparable to ANSI SQL, tailored for NoSQL systems.

PostgreSQL remains the core engine behind DocumentDB, with no plans to fork or diverge from the upstream project. The Linux Foundation will help ensure that governance principles—such as openness and consistency—are upheld. This structure supports the creation of a sustainable ecosystem around the database. As interest grows, the foundation provides a neutral platform for scaling community involvement and technical oversight.

Developer Focus and Community Expansion

From the beginning, DocumentDB has prioritized developer flexibility and ease of use. Developers can interact with the database through PostgreSQL interfaces or MongoDB-compatible tools, depending on their preference. The project’s extensibility allows users to build on familiar technologies while exploring new capabilities. Joining the Linux Foundation reinforces this developer-first approach by formalizing support for open collaboration.

Interest from organizations has grown steadily, with contributors ranging from PostgreSQL community members to managed service providers. To support this momentum, a Technical Steering Committee (TSC) was established to guide the project’s roadmap and maintain quality standards. A group of maintainers now oversees code contributions and ensures alignment with project goals. These structural changes were accelerated by the move to the foundation, which offers a stable framework for governance.

AWS Joins the Effort

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has expressed support for DocumentDB’s transition to the Linux Foundation. According to Adam Abrevaya, Director of Amazon DocumentDB, the project’s permissive license and PostgreSQL foundation offer developers confidence in portability and compatibility. This endorsement highlights the growing industry interest in open-source document databases that bridge relational and NoSQL paradigms. As more cloud providers and developers engage with the project, DocumentDB may play a key role in shaping future standards for flexible data storage.