Database Reference
In-Depth Information
1.7 Summary and Concluding Remarks
Let us summarize what we have covered in this chapter:
•
A database system is a computerized record keeping system with
the overall purpose of maintaining information and making it
available on demand.
•
The DBMS is the software that facilitates creation and
administration of the database.
•
The DBS is made up of the hardware, the operating system,
the DBMS, the actual database, the application programs and the
end users.
•
There are several primary and secondary objectives of a DBS,
which are of importance to the CS professional.
•
A DBS brings a number of significant advantages to the business
environment.
•
There are five approaches to constructing a DBS. Three of them
are traditional and are no longer used. The two contemporary
approaches are the relational approach and the object-oriented
approach. For various reasons, the relational approach is
fundamental to a course in database systems.
•
In striving to acquire a DBS, it is advisable to aspire for a
minimum or 70% of the objectives and advantages. Additionally,
one should strive for platform independence, user-friendliness,
and thorough documentation.
•
The database development life cycle outlines the main activities
in the useful life of a DBS.
Interested? We have just begun to touch the surface. There is a lot more to cover.
Most successful software systems are characterized by carefully designed databases. In
fact, it is safe to say that the efficacy of the software system is a function of its underlying
database. So stay tuned: the next chapter provides more clarification on the database
environment.
1.8 Review Questions
1.
What is a database system?
2.
Why are database systems important?
3.
What is a database management system (DBMS)?
4.
What are the objectives (primary and secondary) of a DBS?
5.
What is data independence, and how important is it?
