Database Management Module 1

ad hoc query

A "spur-of-the-moment" question.

data dictionary

A DBMS component that stores metadata—data about data. Thus, the data dictionary contains the data definition as well as its characteristics and relationships. A data dictionary may also include data that is external to the DBMS. Also known as an information resource dictionary. See also active data dictionary, metadata, and passive data dictionary.

field

A character or group of characters (alphabetic or numeric) that has a specific meaning. A field is used to define and store data.

file

A collection of related records. For example, a file might contain data about the students currently enrolled at Gigantic University.

operational database

A database designed primarily to support a company's day-to-day operations. Also known as a transactional database, OLTP database, or production database.

analytical database

A database focused primarily on storing historical data and business metrics used for tactical or strategic decision making.

centralized database

A database located at a single site.

XML database

A database system that stores and manages semistructured XML data.

discipline-specific database

A database that contains data focused on specific subject areas.

cloud database

A database that is created and maintained using cloud services, such as Microsoft Azure or Amazon AWS.

multiuser database

A database that supports multiple concurrent users.

single-user database

A database that supports only one user at a time.

record

A logically connected set of one or more fields that describes a person, place, or thing.

distributed database

A logically related database that is stored in two or more physically independent sites.

workgroup database

A multiuser database that usually supports fewer than 50 users or is used for a specific department in an organization.

database

A shared, integrated computer structure that houses a collection of related data. A database contains two types of data: end-user data (raw facts) and metadata.

desktop database

A single-user database that runs on a personal computer.

Metadata

Data about data

data

Raw facts, or facts that have not yet been processed to reveal their meaning to the end user.

database management system

The collection of programs that manages the database structure and controls access to the data stored in the database.

enterprise database

The overall company data representation, which provides support for present and expected future needs.

database system

hardware, software, data, procedures, Database Access Language are the main components of