Introduction to Database Concepts

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts: data, information, database, database system, DBMS, CRUDS, DBMS components, examples, applications, and the data processing model.

Data

A collection of unprocessed items (text, numbers, images, audio, video) that by itself has no meaning and must be interpreted and processed to become information.

Information

Processed data that is organized, meaningful, and useful.

Database

A collection of related data stored, organized, accessible, and retrievable to support information use.

Database System

An organization of components that defines and regulates the collection, storage, management, and use of data in a database environment.

DBMS (Database Management System)

Application software (or a collection of programs) that enables users to create, maintain, access, and manage a database.

CRUDS

Create, Read (Access/Search/Retrieve), Update (Modify), Delete, and Store (Write) – the major tasks of a DBMS.

DBMS Components

Five major components: Data (stored facts), Hardware (computers/devices), Software (DBMS & OS), People (DBAs, designers, end users), Procedures (rules for design and use).

DBMS Software Examples

Microsoft Access, Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, LibreOffice Base, MySQL.

Database Applications

Real-world systems that use databases, such as Banking system, Airlines reservation system, Student registration system, Sales system, HR system, Order processing, Inventory control.

IPO Model (Database context)

Input-Process-Output model: data is input and processed/stored by the DBMS to produce information as output.

Raw Data

Unprocessed data that can be stored in a database or used as input to produce information.

Database System vs DBMS vs Database

A DBMS is the software for managing data; a database is the stored data; a database system is the combination of the database and the DBMS (plus applications) forming the complete data environment.