Accuracy: Are all values entered correctly e.g. names spelt correctly
Completeness: Is there any values missing e.g. street names, contact numbers or incomplete addresses
Consistency: Is the summary or mass information consistent (in agreement) with detailed information e.g.
Uniqueness: Is the information only represented once in the databa
se e.g. having duplicates of customers with multiple accounts at a bank.
Timeliness: Is the information current in respect the business requirements. E.g. updating contact information regularly (depending on what the information is, choices need to be made in reference to how often the database should be updated)
2. Define the relationship between a database and a database management system.
A database contains and maintains key information about various types of objects, events, people and places for an organisation. (Baltzan and Phillips et al 2010 pp 260) A Database management system (DMS) is the software that users and other key programs can use to interact, consult and manage the databases. (Baltzan and Phillips et al 2010 pp 260) Users enter information into the DMS and the DMS adjusts and manipulates the information into the database.
Example of what a database looks like
3. Describe the advantages an organisation can gain by using a database.
Having great information in databases can be so beneficial to an organisation. these advantages include:
1. Increased flexibility: A good database can handle changes quickly and efficiently. Through an organisation using a good database it increases flexibility allowing for each individual user to access the information in the best form that suites their needs. e.g. One user may want customers sorted by last names in alphabetical order where as another user may want customers sorted by their first name in alphabetical order. Both lots of information can be acquired from the same database.
2. Increased scalability and performance: Databases can handle a large increase in information and the scalability means how well it can adapt to an increase of demands and is able to conduct various processes and transactions in a fast manner. Today, databases can do both these things and it creates efficiency for organisations.
3. Reduced information redundancy: Databases reduce the duplication of information and prevents key information from being stored in multiple spots. Organisations can gather the same information multiple times and store it in different locations- Sometimes users cannot determine what is the most recent information and this can be confusing. Having reduced information redundancy means that the most up to date information is kept and that no over lapping occurs.
4. Increased information integrity (quality). A database can have integrity constraints built into it. Through having this, it can ensure that all information in a database is of high quality. There are two types of constraints 1)Relational integrity constraints that enforce basic information-based constraints e.g. making purchases for non-existing customers. 2) Business-critical integrity constraints: relate more specifically to the business itself and develops rules that are vital to that organisation.
5. Increased information security: Databases ensure the security of important information and provide security features that can prevent unauthorised users from accessing it. It can also through these features authorise who can view what information E.g. passwords are a great example of database security.
4. Define the fundamental concepts of the relational database model.
The relational database is a database that stores information logically in cells. It is a set of table that displays information in several ways without having to reorganise information. This means that relationships between information can be created so that it can be easily accessed and understood. The key concept o f it is having two or more tables inter relating with a common field that allows for information to be related.
Below is a tutorial showing the key concepts of a relational database:
The link below gives more information on relational databases.
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/question599.htm
5. Describe the benefits of a data-driven website.
A data-driven website is an interactive site that is kept updated constantly and relevant to its users through a use of a database. It allows for users to select the information they want to view by inserting a quiry. An example of a data-driven website is Wikipedia.
(Picture: Baltzan and Phillips et al 2010 pp 267)
Having a data-driven website allows for several advantages for a business, these advantages include:
1. Development: t It allows for the owner to constantly make changes any time they please without having to rely on a developer or knowing how to use HTML programming.
2. Content management: Allows for quick updates for information creating efficiency and fast turnaround for the organisation
3. Future expandability: It allows for the site to grow faster. It is easier to change layouts, ad information, displaces and features to a data-driven sites
4. Minimizing human error: A good data driven website will have ‘error trapping’ devices that will make sure the information is filled out correctly and that the format is correct.
5. Cutting production and update costs: It can be updated by anyone who can use databases or administrative person. This is more convenient and economical for the business as it takes less time and wages to do. It is easy to train someone in data entry and therefore is better for the company.
6. More efficient: It keeps templates saved and other improtant documents so that users do not have to. It also allows for updates on layouts, procedures or site structure to occure in a fast and efficient manner. It improves reliability and stability of a site and reduces the breaking of it if new content is added.
7. Improved stability: Content is never lost. It allows for all content to be kept together and never taken from the company when programmers leave.
The link below explains databases and more benefits of data-driven websites:
http://www.dbnetsolutions.co.uk/Articles/DatabaseDrivenWebsites.aspx
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