DATA: Raw facts; that is , facts that have not yet been processed to reveal their meaning to the end user

INFORMATION: Facts (data) that are arranged in meaningful patterns. Information consists of transformed data and facilitates decision making.

What is a database?

• Instead of storing the same data in many files, data can be structured (in tables) in a database, a collection of (usually) related data tables
• When an application needs specific data it can be retrieved from the database
• Example: Personnel, Sales, Accounting dept
• Sometimes referred to as a Repository of facts

Information system

• The database is part of a larger whole known as an Information System (IS).
• The IS provides for data collection, storage, and retrieval.
• It also facilitated the transformation of data into information and the management of both the data and the information.

Why use a database?

• Data constitutes the building blocks of Information (Information is produced by processing data)
• No decision activity should take place without information
• Good, relevant and timely information is the key to good decision making
• Good decision making is the key to organizational survival in a global environment

Database management

• Database is shared, integrated computer structure housing:
  • End user data
  • Metadata

• Database Management System (DBMS)
  • Manages Database structure
  • Controls access to data
  • Contains query language

Importance of DBMS

• Makes data management more efficient and effective
• Query language allows quick answers to ad hoc queries
• Provides better access to more and better-managed data
• Promotes integrated view of organization’s operations
• Reduces the probability of inconsistent data

Historical roots of database

• First applications focused on clerical tasks
• Requests for information quickly followed
• File systems developed to address needs
  • Data organized according to expected use
  • Data Processing (DP) specialists computerized manual file systems

File terminology

• Data
  • Raw Facts

• Field
  • Group of characters with specific meaning

• Record
  • Logically connected fields that describe a person, place, or thing

• File
  • Collection of related records