Dapper

What is it?

Dapper is an open-source micro Object-Relational Mapper created by the Stack Overflow team. Unlike full ORMs, it focuses on simple object mapping while keeping developers in control of raw SQL.

What does it do?

Dapper executes SQL queries and maps results directly to C# objects with very low overhead. It supports parameter binding, multiple result sets, transactions, and async operations while avoiding heavy change tracking.

Where is it used?

Dapper is widely used in high-performance APIs, enterprise backend systems, microservices, and data-intensive applications where precise SQL control and speed are critical.

When & why it emerged

Dapper emerged around 2011 to address performance limitations of traditional ORMs. It was designed to deliver near–raw SQL performance while still providing convenient object mapping.

Why we use it at Internative

We use Dapper in performance-critical backend services where fine-grained SQL control and efficiency matter. It allows us to build fast, predictable data layers while keeping infrastructure simple and transparent.