Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 1
DATA: THE NEW
CORPORATE RESOURCE
T
he development of database management systems, as well as the development of
modern computers, came about as a result of society's recognition of the crucial
importance of storing, managing, and retrieving its rapidly expanding volumes of business
data. To understand how far we have come in this regard, it is important to know where
we began and how the concept of managing data has developed. This chapter begins
with the historical background of the storage and uses of data and then continues with a
discussion of the importance of data to the modern corporation.
OBJECTIVES
Explain why humankind's interest in data dates back to ancient times.
■
Describe how data needs have historically driven many information technology
developments.
■
Describe the evolution of data storage media during the last century.
■
Relate the idea of data as a corporate resource that can be used to gain a
competitive advantage to the development of the database management systems
environment.
■
CHAPTER OUTLINE
Introduction
The History of Data
The Origins of Data
Data Through the Ages
Early Data Problems Spawn
Calculating Devices
Swamped with Data
Modern Data Storage Media
Data in Today's Information Systems
Environment
Using Data for Competitive
Advantage
Problems in Storing and
Accessing Data
Data as a Corporate Resource
The Database Environment
Summary
