Database

What is a Database & Database Management System?

A database is the collection of related data, and a Database Management System (DBMS) is the software that manages and controls access to the database.

In a manual database, data can be recorded on paper and stored in a filing cabinet. While in a computerized database, it is stored in an electronic format on a storage media.

When you purchase goods or drugs from a modern supermarket or pharmacy store, a database will be accessed. The checkout assistant will run a barcode reader over each of your purchases. This will be linked to a database application program, that uses the barcode to find out the price of the item, from a product database. The program then reduces the number of such items in stock and rings the price up on the till. If the reorder level falls below a threshold, the system may automatically place an order, to obtain more stocks of that item.

When you purchase goods using your credit card, the assistant normally checks the database, to ensure that you have sufficient credit to make the purchase.

When you make an inquiry about flight details, the travel agent may access several databases containing flight details, to make all necessary booking arrangements for you. This is to ensure that two different agents do not book the same seats on the flight.

In modern libraries, there is probably a database containing details of the books in the library, details of the users, reservations, and so on. There would be a computerized index, which allows users to find a book based on title, authors, or subject. The system allows reservation of books and sends out reminders, to borrowers who have failed to return books, on the due date. It uses a barcode reader to keep track of books. In Insurance, brokers search several databases, to find the organization that gives you the best deal.