INMANA

( Information Management )
01 Overview of Database
|What is a DATABASE?
Database is a structured collection of related data. It is designed to manage large bodies of
information.

1. Structured Collection of Related Data:

A database is structured in a way that data is organized and connected logically. This
involves defining tables, where each table consists of rows and columns. Rows represent
individual records, and columns represent attributes or fields.
Relationships between tables are established to reflect the connections between different
types of data. For example, in a university database, there may be tables for students, courses, and
professors, with relationships indicating which students are enrolled in which courses and taught by
which professors.

2. Designed to Manage Large Bodies of Information:

One of the key purposes of a database is to handle and manage vast amounts of data
efficiently. Whether it's a small-scale application or a large enterprise system, databases are
designed to scale and accommodate increasing volumes of information.
The structure and organization of a database facilitate the systematic storage and
retrieval of data, ensuring that even as the dataset grows, the performance and accessibility of the
information are maintained.

|More things to keep in mind

➢ Databases often incorporate data integrity constraints and normalization techniques to
enhance the reliability and accuracy of the stored information.
➢ The design of a database includes considerations for security, access control, and backup
and recovery mechanisms to protect the data and ensure its availability.
➢ Database Management Systems (DBMS) are employed to interact with databases,
providing tools and functionalities for creating, modifying, and querying data.
 In essence, a database is not just a passive repository; it is a carefully structured and
managed system that efficiently handles large volumes of interconnected data, making it an
invaluable tool for businesses, organizations, and applications across various domains.

|Purpose of Database
The fundamental purpose of a database is to systematically organize, efficiently store,
and effectively retrieve data. Databases serve as structured repositories designed to store and
manage information in a manner that facilitates easy access and retrieval when needed. By
employing predefined structures and relationships, databases enable the seamless organization of
data, allowing users to efficiently store, update, and extract information in a systematic and coherent
manner. In essence, databases act as organized warehouses for data, streamlining the process of
data management and retrieval for various applications and tasks.

Organize:
The primary function of a database is to organize data systematically. This involves arranging
information in a structured format, often using tables, rows, and columns.
Organizing data allows for logical categorization and arrangement, making it easier to
understand and manage. This structuring ensures that data is stored in a way that aligns with the
relationships and connections between different pieces of information.

Store:
Databases serve as secure and structured storage spaces for data. Information is stored in a
centralized location, often on a server or cloud platform, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
Storing data in a database involves defining data types, constraints, and relationships
between different pieces of information. This ensures consistency and accuracy in the stored data.

Retrieve:
Retrieval is the process of obtaining or extracting specific information from the database
when needed.
Databases provide powerful querying mechanisms, such as SQL (Structured Query
Language), to retrieve specific data based on user-defined criteria. This facilitates quick and efficient
access to relevant information without the need to sift through large volumes of unstructured data.
Retrieval can be tailored to meet various requirements, ranging from simple searches to
complex data analysis and reporting.
 The purpose of a database is to bring order to the chaos of information, providing a structured
environment where data can be organized, securely stored, and easily retrieved for analysis or
application-specific needs.

|Functions of Database
➢ Eliminate duplication of data items
Imagine having the same information repeated in many places; it can be confusing
and lead to mistakes. Databases help by making sure you only store information once. If you
need it, you can find it easily without having copies all over the place.

➢ Maintain strict consistency of file contents

Think of a database like a well-organized book. Every page has to match the others,
and if you make a change on one page, it should reflect on all related pages. Databases
make sure that all the information stays accurate and consistent.

➢ Make program independent files

In a team, everyone has their job to do. Databases make it possible for different
computer programs to do their tasks without bothering each other. It's like each program has
its own space to work in, and they don't step on each other's toes.

➢ File security
Just like you wouldn't want strangers going through your personal things, databases
help keep your information safe. They have locks and security measures to make sure only
the right people can access and change the data. It's like having a secret code to keep your
files secure.

The functions of a database go beyond just storing information; they ensure data accuracy,
streamline processes, and provide a secure environment for managing and accessing valuable
information.
|Concept of Database