Chapter 1 Database Systems
Why Databases? * At the heart of all of these systems are the collection, storage, aggregation, manipulation, dissemination, and management of data * Databases are specialized structures that allow computer-based systems to store, manage, and to retrieve data very quickly

Data vs. Information * Data – raw facts * Raw indicates that the facts have not yet been processed to reveal their meaning * You transform the raw data into a data summary * Information – the result of processing raw data to reveal its meaning * Data processing can be as simple as organizing data to reveal patters or as complex as making forecasts or drawing inferences using statistical modeling * To reveal meaning, information requires context * Raw data must be properly formatted for storage, processing, and processing * Ex: dates must be stored in Julian calendar formats and yes/no responses must be converted to Y/N or 0/1 * Data are the foundation of information which is bed rocked of knowledge * Knowledge – body of information and facts about a specific subject * Knowledge implies familiarity, awareness, and understanding of information as it applies to the environment * A key characteristic of knowledge is that “new: knowledge can be derived from “old” knowledge * Key Points: * Data constitute the building blocks of information * Information is produced by processing data * Information is used to reveal the meaning of data * Accurate, relevant and timely information is the key to good decision making * Good decision making is the key to organizational survival in a global environment * Data Management – a discipline that focuses on the proper generation, storage, and retrieval of data

Introducing the Database * Database –