Database Design

Databases are becoming the norm for many organizations, because they make it easier to track and store large quantities of data. In addition, programs such as Microsoft Excel only support small amounts of information and have a high level of duplicate files, because Microsoft Excel is installed on the client machines allowing multiple users to make changes to multiple files instead of one file. However, databases can accept simultaneous connections from multiple users, and all data is stored in a centralized location making it easier to access the needed information. Another benefit of a database is a higher level of security because the database administrator determines who has access and sets the permissions accordingly. A Database Management System uses a variety of database models, including the object model and the widely used relational model, which support query languages, which help simplify organizations.

What Are Database Systems?

Database systems are computer programs and software packages used to create, use, and maintain databases. In addition, databases are a collection of data records, files, and objects used by different applications. One of the main purposes of a database system is to manage large amounts of data in a centralized location, so multiple users can simultaneously access the information. In addition, the sole purpose of most databases systems is to modify and retrieve formatted information, such as inventory management and personnel information. However, database systems are capable of much more than the ordinary mundane tasks. For instance, a small number of database systems are employed for more sophisticated applications, such as managing the engineering drawings for a commercial airliner (Blasgen, 1982.)

Important Features of a Database System

A database system refers to the combination of a database, a database management system, and a data model. In addition, the database system is responsible for data manipulation, data controlling, data retrieving, data maintenance, and data definition.

One main feature for a database system is Microsoft's SQL Server, which is a database management and analysis system commonly used for e-commerce and data warehousing solutions (Microsoft, 2013.) The database in Microsoft's SQL Server is composed of a collection of tables that store a specific set of structured data. Additionally, a computer can have multiple SQL Servers installed and each having its own database. A second key feature for a database system is Microsoft Access, which is a tool used to create browser based databases. Microsoft Access goes hand in hand with SQL Servers because information is automatically stored in the database of a SQL server. However, Microsoft Access is best suited for small to medium size organizations because of its limitations; such as processing in Microsoft Access is done