top of page

DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Concept and examples of data and information

Data and information are related concepts in the field of information systems and computer science. Here's an explanation of each concept along with examples:

Data:
Data refers to raw, unprocessed facts, figures, symbols, or observations that are typically in the form of numbers, text, images, audio, or video. Data, on its own, lacks context and meaning. It is the foundation on which information is built. Examples of data include:

1. Temperature readings: 25°C, 30.5°C, 22.2°C
2. Stock prices: $50.25, $62.10, $45.75
3. Student grades: 85, 92, 78
4. Customer IDs: 001, 002, 003
5. Sensor readings: 3.2V, 1000 lux, 45 dB

Information:
Information is the result of processing and organizing data to provide meaning, context, and relevance. It is the interpretation and understanding derived from data. Information helps in decision-making, understanding relationships, and gaining knowledge.

Examples of information derived from data include:

1. Average temperature: 26.2°C
2. Stock market trend: Stock prices increased by 20% over the past month.
3. Grade distribution: 80% of students received an A or B grade.
4. Customer demographics: 60% of customers are between the ages of 25-35.
5. Environmental condition: Noise level is above the acceptable limit of 40 dB.

​

Concept of database

A database is a collection of related data that is designed, structured, and maintained to support the storage, retrieval, and manipulation of data for various applications. Databases play a important role in many fields, including business, scientific research, healthcare, and more.

The concept of a database revolves around the organization, storage, and management of structured data in a systematic and efficient manner.

Key concepts associated with databases include:

​

  1. Data Model: A data model defines the structure, relationships, and constraints of the data stored in the database. Common data models include the relational model, hierarchical model, network model, and object-oriented model.

  2. Tables/Relations: Data in a database is typically organized into tables or relations, which consist of rows (records) and columns (fields). Each row represents a unique entity or record, and each column represents a specific attribute or piece of data.

  3. Keys: Keys are used to uniquely identify records within a table. Primary keys uniquely identify each record, while foreign keys establish relationships between tables.

  4. Queries: Queries are used to retrieve specific data from the database based on specified criteria. SQL (Structured Query Language) is a common language used for querying relational databases.

  5. Data Integrity: Data integrity ensures the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data in the database. It is enforced through various mechanisms such as constraints, rules, and validations.

  6. Data Manipulation: Databases support operations for adding, modifying, and deleting data. This includes inserting new records, updating existing records, and removing unwanted data.

  7. Indexing: Indexes are used to improve the performance of data retrieval operations by creating efficient data access paths. Indexes are created on specific columns to speed up searching and sorting operations.

  8. Security and Access Control: Databases employ security measures to control access to data, ensuring that only authorized users can view, modify, or delete data. This includes user authentication, role-based access control, and data encryption.

  9. Database Management System (DBMS): A DBMS is software that facilitates the creation, maintenance, and administration of databases. It provides a set of tools and functions to manage data, enforce data integrity, handle concurrency, and optimize performance.

bottom of page