Database Concepts and Terminology: Key Definitions
Key Database Concepts and Terminology
What is Metadata?
Metadata is the term for data about data.
Structural Independence
Structural independence exists when it is possible to make changes in the file structure without affecting the application program’s ability to access the data.
Traditional File System Storage
A traditional file system was normally stored in a file cabinet.
Record Definition
A record consists of a set of one or more fields.
Data Integrity
Data integrity is defined as the condition in which all of the data in the database are consistent with the real-world events and conditions.
Database Architects
Database designers are considered database architects.
Key Characteristic of Knowledge
A key characteristic of knowledge is that “new” knowledge can be derived from “old” knowledge.
Performance Tuning
Activities that make the database perform more efficiently in terms of storage and access speed are known as performance tuning.
Database System
The term database system refers to an organization of components that define and regulate the collection, storage, management, and use of data within a database environment.
Data Processing Specialists
Data processing (DP) specialists are in existence because of the need to track data and produce required reports.
Data Anomaly
Inconsistent redundant data would result in a data anomaly.
Raw Data
The word raw indicates that the facts have not yet been processed to reveal their meaning.
Procedures in a Database System
Procedures are the instructions and rules that govern the design and use of the database system.
Data Dependence
Because all data access programs are subject to change when any of the file’s data storage characteristics change (that is, changing the data type), the file system is said to exhibit data dependence.
Query Language
The DBMS allows the user to specify what must be done, without having to specify how it is to be done, by using a query language.
Information: The Key to Good Decision Making
Accurate, relevant, and timely information is the key to good decision making.
Nonprocedural Language
A nonprocedural language allows the user to specify what must be done without specifying how it must be done.
Data Anomaly Development
A data anomaly develops when all of the required changes in the redundant data are not made successfully.
Ad Hoc Query
An ad hoc query is a spur of the moment question.
Data: A Raw Fact
A raw fact such as a telephone number is known as data.
Logical Data Format
Human beings view data according to its logical data format.
Data Independence
Data independence exists when it is possible to make changes in the data storage characteristics without affecting the application program’s ability to access the data.
Query Result Set
A query result set is the name for an answer to a query that the DBMS sends back to the application.
DBMS: Managing User-Database Interaction
The DBMS manages interaction between the end user and the database.
Information as a Foundation for Decision Making
Processed data, or information, can be used as the foundation for decision making.
Enterprise Database Limitations
MS Access does not provide an enterprise database.
Production Database
Another name for a production database is a transactional database.
Data Redundancy
Data redundancy exists when the same data are stored unnecessarily at different places.
Workgroup Database User Support
A workgroup database usually supports up to 50 users.
Record: Grouping Fields
All fields for a specific entity can be grouped together as a record.
Integrated View of Operations
Wider access to well-managed data promotes an integrated view of the organization’s operations and a clearer view of the big picture.
Formatted Raw Data
Raw data must be properly formatted for storage, processing, and presentation.
Data Warehouse
A data warehouse focuses primarily on storing data used to generate information required to make tactical or strategic decisions.
Benefits of Using a DBMS
A benefit of using a DBMS is that it helps create an environment for end users to have access to more data.
Data Management Focus
Data management is a discipline that focuses on the proper generation, storage, and retrieval of data.
End Users
End users are the people who use application programs to run the organization’s daily operations.
Data Dictionary
The DBMS stores the definitions of data elements and their relationships in a data dictionary.
Database System Components
A database system is composed of software, hardware, data, procedures, and people.
Software Examples
Database management systems, operating systems, applications, and utilities are all examples of software.
Data Warehouse Design
The design of a data warehouse database recognizes the use of historical and aggregated data.
DBMS: Request Fulfillment
The DBMS receives all application requests and translates them into the complex operations required to fulfill those requests.
Creating a Query
If John is working in the customer table and needs to know what customers are located in Florida, he would need to create a new query.
Distributed Database
A database that supports data distributed across several different sites is called a distributed database.
Desktop Database
A single-user database that runs on a personal computer is called a desktop database.
DBMS Classification
The most common classification applied to a DBMS is the expected type and extent of use.