1.1 Database basics

Access

Some data sources are private while others are made publicly available

Scope

The amount of data produced and collected can vary

database

a collection of data in a structured format.

database user

a consumer of data in a database. Database users request, update, or use stored data to generate reports or information. they usually access the database via applications but can also submit queries directly to the database system.

query language

a specialized programming language, designed specifically for database systems.

database designer

determines the format of each data element and the overall database structure. they must balance several priorities, including storage, response time, and support for rules that govern the data.

database programmer

develops computer programs that utilize a database. they write applications that combine database query languages and general-purpose programming languages.

Data

numeric, textual, visual, or audio information that describes real-world systems

Format

Data may be produced as numbers, text, image, audio, or video.

database administrator

responsible for securing the database system against unauthorized users. they enforce procedures for user access and database system availability

database application

software that helps business users interact with database systems

database system / database management system / DBMS

software that reads and writes data in a database