What is a database management system?

A database management system (DBMS) is a platform that helps store and organize data. It creates a centralized source of data that can be used by various stakeholders from different departments and access levels. The platform combines data storage, modification, analytics, and reporting functions to enable more efficient use of key data.

According https://turbogeek.org/simplify-devops-with-automated-database-management/ acting as a link between databases and employees, a DBMS allows data to be added, updated, accessed, and deleted according to assigned permission levels. It is a data management tool that includes storage, search, query, replication, security, and data transformation functions.

Why do you need a database management system?

For most companies, data is a key asset that determines the success and efficiency of the business. A database management system plays a key role in ensuring that this data is managed effectively. Here are some reasons why a DBMS is essential in modern business:

- Structured data management: A DBMS allows companies to store data in an organized and systematic manner. This ensures easy access to information and simplifies the processes of searching and analyzing data.

- Data Security: An important aspect is to ensure data security. A DBMS allows you to regulate access to data by defining different levels of access for different users. This helps prevent unauthorized access and protect confidential information.

- Faster decision making: The DBMS provides fast and convenient access to data, which allows employees to make informed decisions faster. The reports and analytics provided by the system help identify trends, predict results and optimize business processes.

Types of Database Management Systems

1. Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)
2. Object-oriented database management system (OODBMS)
3. Hierarchical Database Management System (HDMS)
4. Network Database Management System (NDBMS)

Below we will talk in more detail about each of these types of platforms, discuss their features and areas of application.

Relational database management system

A relational database is a collection of data that is related to one another, allowing different data points to be combined to improve usability. A relational database management system is software that manages the storage and sharing of such databases.

An RDBMS organizes data in a relational database by defining functional dependencies between different data points. It ensures that data is stored in an organized manner, making it easier for employees to find and use the information.

The related points can be time, data or logic, and the relationships can be classified as follows:
a) One-to-one: a data point in one table is related to a data point in another table.
b) One-to-many: a data point in one table is related to multiple data points in another table.
c) Many-to-one: multiple data points in one table are related to a data point in another table.
d) Many-to-many: multiple data points in one table are related to multiple data points in another table.

The platform uses Structured Query Language (SQL), which allows users to execute queries and retrieve the information they need. Key features of the system include:
- Storage of large amounts of data
- Fast data retrieval
- Ability to simultaneously access data by multiple users.

Object-oriented database management system

An object-oriented database is a collection of materials presented as objects. In this type, multiple points are combined into one unit, making it easier to find and use information.

An OODBMS is software that stores and manages databases as objects. It allows workers to search for complete objects rather than individual data points, making searches more efficient and faster. This type of database is used for high-performance tasks such as software development and programming that require faster decision making. 

The characteristics of an object-oriented database include:
- Direct relationship between database objects and real-world scenarios, which prevents objects from losing their purpose.
- Object identifier, which allows objects to be quickly accessed and used.
- Support for various data types, such as images, text, and graphics.
 

Hierarchical Database Management System

A hierarchical database is a collection of data organized in a tree structure. In this structure, data is linked and arranged from top to bottom, with the primary data point at the top and secondary data points following in the hierarchy based on their relevance. An example of a hierarchical database is the organizational structure of a business.

An IDBMS is software that stores and manages hierarchical databases. It ensures that the data hierarchy is maintained accurately according to its use in work processes.

Characteristics of a hierarchical database management system include:
- Ease of adding and deleting data in a hierarchy.
- Ease of searching and accessing data in a hierarchy.
- Adherence to a one-to-many relational data model.

Hierarchical databases are widely used in organizations to represent structured data such as organizational charts, product and service classifications, graphical structures, and others.

Network Database Management System

A network database is a collection of data in which each data point is linked to multiple primary and secondary data points. This means that the data is organized in a network where each data point may have multiple relationships with other data points.

A network database is software that stores and manages interconnected data in a network database. It allows you to create and manage complex data structures while providing quick access to information. This software was created to overcome the shortcomings of the hierarchical database model, which does not allow relationships between data points other than the top-down flow.