To: Prof. Jason Ellis
From: Kiara Candelario
Date: March 26, 2021
Subject: Expanded Definition of Database
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to provide an expanded definition of the word “database.” I have chosen the word database because it has such an impact on our lives without us realizing it. Two definitions of the word database will be provided and will be compared. Also, two instances of the word being used will be provided and compare how the individuals are using the word. Lastly, a working definition is created based on the previous definitions and the context.
Definitions
According to Oxford Dictionary, a database is “A structured set of data held in computer storage and typically accessed or manipulated by means of specialized software.” (Oxford, 2021) The definition explains that it is an organized set of data that can be manipulated, stored, or accessed on a computer. The specialized software stated in the definition used to access and manage the data in a computer is called a database management system (DBMS). They are many database management systems that are used for databases. Some of the database management systems are MySQL, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and PostgreSQL
According to Merriam-Webster, a database is “a usually large collection of data organized especially for rapid search and retrieval (as by a computer).” (Merriam-Webster,2021) The definition explains that it is a large amount of organized data that is accessible with the use of a computer. When searching for the data, it is searched and retrieved quickly. Databases make retrieving data faster. It is efficient for companies that have large amounts of data that need to be stored as well as accessed for future use and reference. For example, doctors can quickly get access to their patient information due to it being held on a database.
The Oxford Dictionary and Merriam-Webster definition both discuss that a database is basically an organized collection of data stored on a computer. Some differences are that the Oxford Dictionary sheds light on how specialized software is needed to manipulate and access the data, which is the use of a database management system. The Merriam-Webster definition sheds light on how large amounts of organized data is access quickly by search and retrieval. Both definitions are used in the technology industry as well as other industries.
Context
Harington states, “for the most part, today’s DBMS is intended as shared resources. A single database may be supporting thousands of users at one time.” Databases have the ability to allow many users to access the information that is in them at once. It demonstrates how databases are efficient due to a single database supporting thousands of users simultaneously. Although it allows many users to access the data, it is possible to have security in place so only a restricted number of individuals can access the data. For example, in a company, a database can be limited to specific individuals in order to prevent company breaches.
Randle states, “The Brooklyn district attorney’s office said DNA had helped solve 270 cases, including sexual assaults and homicides. The role of the database became a flash point in the trial of Chanel Lewis, the Brooklyn man convicted in April of murdering Karina Vetrano, a jogger in Queens.” The article discusses how police use a DNA database to capture criminals. The police get DNA samples from a crime scene and run them on the database to see if there is a match. Suppose there is a match, the person whose DNA it corresponds to shows up on the database, and all essential information needed for that person is there. The DNA database also has DNA from individuals that are not criminals.
Harington’s and Randle’s use of the word database is based on using a specific application or software with a database behind it to retrieve information like the individuals’ names in the database. The application makes it easier for the user to search for the items instead of retrieving them with code like SQL.
Working Definition
Based on the definition and the contextual use of the word ‘database,’ a database is organized data stored on a computer. It can be modified and retrieved with the help of a database management system. The data and the DBMS, and the application associated with it are called a database system. Only people who are authorized can have access to the data. Many applications and websites have a database behind them to retrieve and update information.
References
Harrington, J. L. (2009). Relational database design and implementation: Clearly explained. ProQuest Ebook Central https://ebookcentral.proquest.com
Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Database. In Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved February 23, 2021, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/database?src=search-dict-hed#other-words
Oxford University Press. (n.d.). Database. In Oxford Dictionary. Retrieved February 23, 2021, from
Randle, A. (2019, August 16). Why the N.y.p.d.’s DNA database has some people worried. Retrieved March 26, 2021, from https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/16/nyregion/newyorktoday/nypd-dna-database.html?searchResultPosition=12
