What is a Database?
Sorry it’s been a while since my last database related post. However, I’ve been working through the VTC site and am very pleased with it thus far. So, because I’m behind on my posts I’m going to rattle off several in a row so I can catch up.
The first step in learning SQL Server 2K always involve a brief history of SQL and the explanation of databases in a general since. (I say always, but mean in the books that I’ve started to read and in this video format.) I will not go into the background of SQL as you can read about it on Wikipedia. Instead, I will attempt to explain databases.
I probably don’t need to write this but, databases are spaces where information is stored and can be referenced. They are used by all businesses, be it a receipt book, file cabinet, or SQL. I as you might expect will be focused on SQL. Unlike most things made, SQL databases are not usually seen in their entirety. The most commonly used metaphor is to think of a database as a stack of Excel spreadsheet pages. However, since most databases consist of multiple tables that are cross referenced they are usually shown as flow charts. The flow chart can map the idea of a data base, but you never see the whole thing at once. When Z was explaining this concept he had me hold out my hands to imagine working on something then held a piece of paper in front of my face and said “It’s like this.” I feel that his might be the best illustration, if not it’s certainly the most fun.
