Characteristics and Benefits of a Database

Read this chapter and focus on the advantages of each of the database characteristics. Remember to take notes on the "key terms". Then, complete the exercises at the end of each chapter to evaluate what you have learned about the use of various database tools.

Introduction

Managing information means taking care of it so that it works for us and is useful for the tasks we perform. By using a DBMS, the information we collect and add to its database is no longer subject to accidental disorganization. It becomes more accessible and integrated with the rest of our work. Managing information using a database allows us to become strategic users of the data we have.

We often need to access and re-sort data for various uses. These may include:

  • Creating mailing lists
  • Writing management reports
  • Generating lists of selected news stories
  • Identifying various client needs

The processing power of a database allows it to manipulate the data it houses, so it can:

  • Sort
  • Match
  • Link
  • Aggregate
  • Skip fields
  • Calculate
  • Arrange

Because of the versatility of databases, we find them powering all sorts of projects. A database can be linked to:

  • A website that is capturing registered users
  • A client-tracking application for social service organizations
  • A medical record system for a health care facility
  • Your personal address book in your email client
  • A collection of word-processed documents
  • A system that issues airline reservations

Source: Adrienne Watt, https://opentextbc.ca/dbdesign01/chapter/chapter-3-characteristics-and-benefits-of-a-database/
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