Database Systems: Key Concepts and Design Principles

Good information

Information that aids in making good decisions, derived from raw data.

Data

Raw facts that are processed to reveal meaning.

Databases

Systems that manage data efficiently, evolved from file systems.

File systems

Traditional methods of storing data that databases have evolved from.

Data management problems

Challenges that databases solve in various fields such as business and research.

DB operations

Operations performed on databases that are crucial for application interactions.

Information

Processed data that reveals meaning and requires context for effective use.

Context

The necessary background information that allows data to be understood.

Metadata

Data about data, describing characteristics and relationships.

DBMS

Database Management System, a collection of programs managing database structure and access.

Data sharing

The ability to share data among multiple users through a DBMS.

Centralized database

A database located at a single site.

Distributed database

A database that is spread across multiple sites.

Operational database

A database used for day-to-day operations.

Data warehouse

A database that supports tactical and strategic decisions.

Unstructured data

Data that does not have a predefined data model.

Structured data

Data that adheres to a predefined schema.

Semi-structured data

Data that does not conform to a rigid structure but has some organizational properties.

Structural dependence

When file access depends on the structure of the database.

Structural independence

The ability to change the structure of the database without affecting access.

Data redundancy

The unnecessary storage of the same data in multiple places.

Anomalies

Errors that occur due to incomplete updates, including update, insertion, and deletion anomalies.

DBMS functions

Various roles performed by a DBMS, including data dictionary management, data storage management, and security management.

Backup & recovery management

DBMS function that preserves data integrity through backup and recovery processes.