Lesson 4: Understanding Database Management Systems in IM 101

Database System

Organization of components managing data collection and storage.

Hardware

Physical devices like computers and storage units.

Software

Programs enabling database system functionality.

Operating System

Manages hardware and allows other software to run.

DBMS Software

Manages databases within the database system.

Application Programs

Access and manipulate data in the DBMS.

Utility Software

Tools for managing database system components.

People

Users interacting with the database system.

System Administrators

Oversee general operations of the database system.

Database Administrators

Manage and maintain database environments.

Database Designers

Create and structure database systems.

System Analysts

Analyze and design information systems.

End-Users

Individuals who utilize the database for tasks.

Procedures

Protocols for managing and using the database.

Data

Information stored and processed within the database.

Information Systems

Systems for collecting, storing, and processing data, refers to any formal, sociotechnical, organizational system designed to collect, process, store, and distribute information.

Efficiency

Optimal use of resources in information systems.

Security

Protection of data against unauthorized access.

Database Administrator (DBA)

Manages DBMS and ensures database functionality.

Database Designer

Architects the database structure for efficiency.

System Analyst

Designs and implements application programs.

End User

Uses application programs for daily operations.

Data Dictionary

Stores metadata about data elements and relationships.

Data Storage Management

Manages structures for efficient data storage.

Performance Tuning

Activities to enhance database efficiency.

Data Transformation

Converts data to required structures for users.

Security Management

Enforces user security and data privacy rules.

Multiuser Access Control

Ensures data integrity with concurrent user access.

Data Backup and Recovery

Provides data recovery and safety measures.

Data Integrity Management

Enforces rules to minimize redundancy and maximize consistency.

Data Integrity Rules

Rules applied to enforce data integrity in tables.

Database Access Language

Nonprocedural language for querying databases.

Structured Query Language (SQL)

Standard query language for database access.

Application Programming Interface (API)

Language for applications to communicate with DBMS.

Database Communication Interfaces

Accepts requests via various network environments.