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For data to be useful, it needs to be processed by a computer or another computing device. Information is processed,
organised, and meaningful data that provides context, relevance, and value. It is the result of interpreting, analysing,
and synthesising data to derive insights or make decisions. If data is not correct or accurate, the information obtained by
processing such data may not be correct. For example, in a library database, information could be the availability status
of a book, its location in the library, and the borrower’s details. Other forms of information are pay-slips, schedules,
worksheet, bar charts, invoices, account returns etc.
For example:
• Fruits: Apple, Banana, Cherry, Date, Elderberry
• The temperature increased from 25°C to 30°C between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
• At 12:00 noon, the temperature was 27°C.
DATABASE
A database is a collection of logically related data items stored in an organised manner. The information being stored
in a database can be added, modified, deleted or displayed according to the requirements of the user. We are using
a database in almost every field. It is used by the school to store information about students and books in the library.
When we go shopping then the shopping complex uses a database to maintain the details of stock and customers.
Companies use databases to keep track of their employees’ information. In almost every field, we are directly or
indirectly using a database.
The software is used to create, update, and retrieve data in a database is known as a Database Management System
(DBMS). It facilitates planning and maintenance of the database for the user. Some of the commonly used Database
software are as follows:
• Oracle • dBase
• Microsoft Access • MongoDB
• MySQL • OpenOffice Base
• Ingress • LibreOffice Base
• SQL Server
LibreOffice Base is an open source RDBMS. In this unit, we will learn Database concepts using LibreOffice Base.
Features of Database
The main features of a database are as follows:
• There can be more than one table in a database. For example, in a school, in the Students’ database, there can be
one table for saving personal details about the student. Another table may be for storing marks and progress of the
student. Other tables may include fee details, library books issued, etc. all related to the student.
• The information stored in a table in a database relates to one specific topic. So, all the related information on a topic
can be viewed in one single table.
• In a database, data can be simultaneously accessed by many users. So, it saves storage space by storing one table at
one place from where every authorised user can access it.
• Database offers data protection and features like recovery and backup for easy recording and retrieval of data.
• Database allows the users to view data in different views with the required information only.
• Data stored in a database remains permanently stored till the time it is manually deleted from the system/ server.
• If the database table has a unique field, then there are minimum chances of duplication of data which avoids
confusion at a later stage.
Advantages of Database
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