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EDPM SBA 1 Manuscript

A database is an organized repository for storing information, essential for managing transactions in various sectors like supermarkets and banks. Databases can be paper-based or electronic, with electronic databases typically managed by Database Management Systems (DMS) such as Oracle and Microsoft Access. The structure of a database consists of tables that store related groups of data, known as entities, to facilitate easy retrieval and management of records.

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81 views2 pages

EDPM SBA 1 Manuscript

A database is an organized repository for storing information, essential for managing transactions in various sectors like supermarkets and banks. Databases can be paper-based or electronic, with electronic databases typically managed by Database Management Systems (DMS) such as Oracle and Microsoft Access. The structure of a database consists of tables that store related groups of data, known as entities, to facilitate easy retrieval and management of records.

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Holsworth Wilson
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Introduction to databases

Defining a database

The primary purpose of a database is to store information in an orderly fashion. Databases are
sometimes called repositories.

Why do we need databases? Think of a supermarket where there are hundreds of transactions
every day. At the end of any day, the supermarket may have sold thousands of units of stock.
How can management keep track of stock? A database can help. Similarly, airline companies,
banks and other financial institutions use database to keep records of clients, suppliers,
employees, and transactions.

Databases can be paper databases, where records and data are stored on paper and filed in
cabinets or rooms. Think of a library card system where cards that contain the names and authors
of books are stored in a cabinet. More commonly, databases are electronic, which means they
use electronics records stored on a computer. Database programs are often called database
management system (DMS). Here are some database programs used for businesses:

 Oracle
 Microsoft Access
 Microsoft Visual FoxPro
 MysSQL
 fileMaker
 Firebird

In chapter 23 you will be shown the basis of using Microsoft Access. Database Management is
the process of compiling and looking after a database. Here are some of the activities:

 Retrieving records
 Sorting and ordering records
 keeping records up to date
 adding new records
 adjusting and improving the structure of a database when needed
 keeping records secure from data corruption or unauthorised viewing
 controlling access to records

Components of a database

A database contains a lot of data, but this data is not randomly stored wherever there is space.
When data is entered in a database, it is organised so it is easy to locate. This involves breaking
up the data into groups that are related in some way.

Database structure
A database is made up of different tables. A table stores records that form part of a related
group. These groups are called entities. An entity is any type of data that has importance. For
example, a supermarket stores data about its stocks, its employees, its suppliers, and so on. Each
is entity, and the data related to these entities will be stored in tables.

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