A method, system, and computer program product for high-performance database systems. The method commences by estimating, during a compile phase, a statically-calculated system cost of performing parallel join operations over two relations, then selecting, during the compile phase, a first distribution method to perform the parallel join operations. Instructions (e.g., table partitioning) are communicated to two or more execution units for execution of the parallel join operations, and during execution, various measurements are taken pertaining to the performance of a first portion of the parallel join operations using the selected first distribution method. Then, responsive to the measurements a second distribution method is selected and corresponding instructions are communicated to the two or more execution units. The parallel join operations continue, now using the second distribution method.