Parts of a Database System

These flashcards cover the key concepts from the lecture on the five main parts of a modern database system—hardware, software, people, procedures, and data—along with the roles, definitions, and examples associated with each component.

What are the five main parts of a database system?

Hardware, software, people, procedures, and data.

How does a relational database differ from a flat file system?

A relational database stores logically related data in separate tables within one system, while a flat file system keeps separate, unrelated files.

What does the hardware component of a database system encompass?

Physical devices such as the CPU, RAM, disk drives, servers, network components, and any desktops, tablets, or mobile devices that interact with the database.

Why are CPU, RAM, and disk-drive performance important to a database system?

They determine how quickly and efficiently the database can run queries, store data, and respond to user requests.

What role does the operating system play in a database system?

It manages hardware resources and provides the environment in which the DBMS and other applications run.

Give four common operating systems used in database environments.

Windows, Linux, macOS, and UNIX (others include Android and iOS).

What is the purpose of a Database Management System (DBMS)?

To store, retrieve, manage, and control access to data within the database.

Name four popular DBMS platforms.

PostgreSQL, Oracle, MySQL, and MS SQL Server.

What type of software lets users insert data, run queries, and create reports?

Applications or utilities that interact with the DBMS.

Who oversees the entire database/information system to ensure optimal operation?

The system administrator.

Who is responsible for designing the database structure to meet business needs?

The database designer (database architect).

Which role manages the DBMS, controls access, and optimizes queries?

The Database Administrator (DBA).

Who designs and implements application programs that interact with the DBMS?

System analysts and programmers.

Who uses applications to perform day-to-day organizational tasks?

End users.

What are procedures in the context of a database system?

Rules or instructions that specify how the database is designed, accessed, backed up, secured, and audited.

Why are some database procedures mandated by law or regulation?

To ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, or industry requirements for data security, privacy, and auditing.

Define data within a database system.

Raw facts—such as phone numbers or addresses—stored in the database to build information.

How can built-in data formats simplify database design and querying?

Predefined structures (e.g., e-commerce orders, web logs) make tables easier to create, optimize, and query.

In a database system, which component links business operations with technological tools by capturing and structuring raw facts?

Data.

How do all five components—hardware, software, people, procedures, and data—interact in a database system?

They work together to create, operate, and maintain an efficient, secure database that supports organizational needs.