Organize Your Files
A computer database is a structured collection of records or data that is stored in a computer system. A database relies upon software to organize the storage of data. In other words, the software models the database structure in what are known as database models (or data models). The model in most common use today is the relational model. Other models such as the hierarchical model and the network model use a more explicit representation of relationships
The program that manages the database is referred to as the database management system or DBMS. Among the most popular systems include Microsoft Access, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and File Maker. These databases are far more complex than a text file or a spreadsheet, as they have the ability to relate the records across different tables.
The flat (or table) model consists of a single, two-dimensional array of data elements, where all members of a given column are assumed to be similar values, and all members of a row are assumed to be related to one another. For instance, columns for name and password that might be used as a part of a system security database. Columns of the table often have a type associated with them, defining them as character data, date or time information, integers, or floating point numbers.
A spreadsheet program similar to Microsoft Excel is also a form of database. This type of program also allows the user to easily organize the data. For example, the user can arrange the records by surname or by first name. The items are organized in both rows and columns that make the record easier to understand.
Data manipulation is yet another advantage of using a database. Extensive data manipulation facilities for creating, copying, moving, converting reformatting and validating application test data are essential for the efficient development of reliable DBMS. The same facilities are also essential in addressing failures in live systems, where it is imperative to find and fix production data errors with confidence and precision.
Among the most basic examples of a database is the text file. Most ordinary computer users keep their database in the form of a text — like a list of email addresses, a list of names, or a list of telephone numbers. It can be kept in programs such as Microsoft Word, Notepad, or Wordpad. This information is useful in many tasks, such as sending email.