FundamentalsofDatabaseDesign.pptVIP

Fundamentals of Database Design John Villamil-Casanova Executive Vice President CIO The Aspira Association 202.835.3600 ext. 123 jvillamil@aspira.org Agenda Introduction and participants needs We will review “what is a database;” Understand the difference between data and information; What is the purpose of a database system; How to select a database system; Database definitions and fundamental building blocks; Agenda (2) Database development: the first steps; Quality control issues; Data entry considerations; What is a database A database is any organized collection of data. Some examples of databases you may encounter in your daily life are: a telephone book T.V. Guide airline reservation system motor vehicle registration records papers in your filing cabinet files on your computer hard drive.? Data vs. information:What is the difference? What is data? Data can be defined in many ways. Information science defines data as unprocessed information. What is information? Information is data that have been organized and communicated in a coherent and meaningful manner. Data is converted into information, and information is converted into knowledge. Knowledge; information evaluated and organized so that it can be used purposefully. Why do we need a database? Keep records of our: Clients Staff Volunteers To keep a record of activities and interventions; Keep sales records; Develop reports; Perform research Longitudinal tracking What is the ultimate purpose of a database management system? More about database definition What is a database? Quite simply, it’s an organized collection of data. A database management system (DBMS) such as Access, FileMaker, Lotus Notes, Oracle or SQL Server which provides you with the software tools you need to organize that data in a flexible manner. It includes tools to add, modify or delete data from the database, ask questions (or queries) about the data stored in the database and produce reports summarizing selecte