Using a database management system?

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A database management system (DBMS) is actually a software program that allows users to view, edit, sort, and run reports on a specific set of data. These programs may also be called applications, interfaces or clients. The uses of a database management system are specific to the functions for which it was developed: systems can be designed to meet a variety of user needs. To use a database management system, users must either learn the commands associated with the system or become familiar with graphical user interface (GUI) tools that have been developed to perform tasks such as creating and modifying tables and adding, editing or deleting records.

If you access the database management system you use via a “command line” – a typed command that runs a program – you will need to familiarize yourself with the conventions of what is known as Standard Query Language (SQL). This requires typing specific commands to communicate your requests to the database itself. For example, the “CREATE TABLE clients” command will create a table named “customers” in an existing database. Such a simple command does not create columns in the table or populate it with data. Additional commands can add complexity and depth to the new table.

Other database management systems can be accessed through web-based portals. These are usually maintained by a web hosting company and have an intuitive GUI that allows users to view and select possible commands. To use this type of database management system, you should be familiar with the menu options that allow you to perform tasks such as adding tables and setting up columns, as well as adding, editing and deleting data in those tables. When working with this type of database management system, you don’t need to learn SQL. Some experts, however, recommend learning the basics of SQL for solving problems and writing queries.

A third type of database management system allows a GUI to be installed on a computer, allowing users to run the program from their own workstations. As in web-based systems, the menu options vary, but the tasks required to manage the database do not require knowledge of SQL. Management systems within a GUI require learning specific menu options. While it is not necessary to write SQL, a general understanding of database functions is essential so that elements of the system can be set up correctly.

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