Databases

Databases

1. Data, information and knowledge

   • A structure is needed in order for data can become information.
     • Knowledge is the ability to understand information and to then form judgements
       • Computers can be programmed with rules to use information to make simple decisions.

2. Databases and data capture

   • A database is a way of storing information in an organised, logical way.
     • A database is a way of storing information in an organised, logical way

3. Before setting up a database, the record structure must be decided to make best use of the memory.

   • A relational database has more than one table and the tables are linked using key fields.
     • Before setting up a database the data must be collected. This can be done using a data capture form.
       • A database is a way of storing information in an organised, logical way.
         • Applications such as Microsoft Access use query language to narrow down search results. A query can look at more than one field.

4. Data validation and verification

   • Validation and verification are two ways to check that the data entered into a computer is correct. Data entered incorrectly is of little use.
     • Validation is an automatic computer check to ensure that the data entered is sensible and reasonable.
       • Verification is performed to ensure that the data entered exactly matches the original source.
         • Data security
           • Data security is about keeping data safe and affects anyone relying on a computer system.
             • In a local doctor's surgery, data about the patients is stored in a database on a computer.

5. ·

   • Data transfer files have standards so they can be transferred to any computer
     • The need to import and export data files has led to the development of several standard file types that many applications can understand.
       • The need to import and export data files has led to the development of several standard file types that many applications can understand
         • Files can be easily transferred and shared across the globe using the internet.