MODULE 1
LESSON 2: DATABASE SYSTEMS
2. Database Systems
Database systems are at the heart of almost every modern
application—school portals, banking apps, social media, hospital
records, and even mobile games. They help organizations store,
manage, protect, and use data effectively for decision-making.
2.1 Databases and Its Purpose
A database is an organized collection
Purpose of a Database:
To store large amounts of data efficiently
To avoid duplication and inconsistency
To retrieve information quickly
To support decision-making (reports, analytics, trends)
To ensure data security and integrity
2.2 Data vs. Information
Understanding this difference is fundamental in Information
Management.
Data
Raw facts
Unorganized
No context
Example: 85, 90, 88
Information
Processed and meaningful
Organized and interpreted
Has context
Example: Student’s average grade is 87.67
2.3 Introducing the Database
A database does not work alone—it is managed by a Database
Management System (DBMS).
A DBMS is software that allows users to:
Create databases
Insert, update, and delete data
Retrieve data using queries
Control access and security
A DBMS can be used to build many different types of databases.
Number of Users Supported
Single User Database supports only one user at a time.
Multiuser Database supports multiple users at the same time.
-Workgroup Database supports a relatively small number of users
(usually fewer than 50) or a specific department within an
organization.
-
-Enterprise Database is used by the entire organization Enterprise
Database is used by the entire organization and supports many
users (more than 50, usually hundreds) across many departments.
2.3 Introducing the Database
Data Location
Centralized Database supports data located at a single site.
Distributed Database supports data distributed across several
different sites.
Data Usage
Operational Database is designed primarily to support a company’s
day-to-day operations
Analytical Database focuses primarily on storing historical data and
business metrics used exclusively for tactical or strategic decision
making.
Degree to Which the Data is Structured
XML Database is where unstructured and semi-structured data
storage and management needs are being addressed
2.4 Why Database Design is Important
Database design is the process of structuring a database to reduce
errors and improve performance.
Why it matters
-Prevents data redundancy (duplicate data)
-Avoids data inconsistency
-Makes databases faster and scalable
-Improves data integrity and accuracy
-Makes systems easier to maintain
2.5 Evolution of File System Data Processing
Stages of Evolution
-Manual record keeping (paper files)
-Computerized file systems (text files, spreadsheets)
-Database systems (centralized, structured, secure)
2.6 Problems with File System Data Processing
Traditional file systems had many limitations:
Data redundancy – same data stored in multiple files
Data inconsistency – updates not reflected everywhere
Data isolation – difficult to combine data from files
Security issues – limited access control
Difficult data retrieval – no standard query language
2.7 Database Systems and Environment
Main Components
Database – actual stored data
DBMS – software that manages the database
Hardware – servers, storage devices
Software – operating system, application
2.8 The Database Life Cycle (DBLC)
Database Initial Study involves a preliminary analysis
Database Design is the most critical DBLC phase
Implementation and Loading is the actual creation of the database using
a DBMS.
Testing and Evaluation takes place when the system is rigorously tested to
ensure it meets all requirements and performs efficiently.
Operation happens when the database goes into full-scale operation,
being used for its intended purpose.
Maintenance and Evolution occurs when activities such as backups,
updates, and patches are performed.