Creating local Oracle test database

Question

Is there a quick way to create a local test Oracle database? I need to modify a stored procedure in a remote database. However, I'd ideally like to test it possibly by cloning the remote database locally.

I don't need the same set of data, possibly just a very small subset and only a few tables if possible. I've read about Oracle XE and others, but not sure if there's a quick and easy way of doing it.

Answer 1

No, there is no quick way to create an Oracle database the first time.

There are many technologies that can help to rapidly rebuild a database: virtual machines, data pump over network links, transportable tablespaces, response files, 12c container databases(?), or just some plain old SQL*Plus scripts.

But all of those methods will be painful to setup the first time. Installing Oracle is difficult because it's a complicated product and there is little demand for those types of solutions. Most Oracle professionals do not value the ability to rebuild a database in a few minutes.

Personally I think local development and testing is far superior than developing on a server. So don't give up. The first time will be a pain, but it will pay off in the long run.