Rina Cyber Journal: Benefits and Objectives of Databases, Along with Their Advantages and Disadvantages

Benefits and Objectives of Databases

The benefit of a database is to manage data in a way that makes it easier and faster to retrieve the needed information.

The objectives of a database include the following:

Speed and Convenience
Databases allow users to store, modify, delete, add, and retrieve data quickly and easily.
Storage Efficiency
Databases help optimize storage usage by minimizing data redundancy and implementing data encoding strategies.
Accuracy
By utilizing encoding or creating relationships between data, databases can enforce data type constraints to ensure accuracy during data input or storage.
Security
Although not all database systems implement security measures, large-scale or mission-critical systems require robust security to control who can access the database and what operations they are permitted to perform.
Maintained Data Consistency
When a change is made in one application, it automatically applies to all others, maintaining consistent data across the system.
Shared Usage
Multiple applications can access and use the same data simultaneously.
Standardization
With centralized control, databases can enforce standardized data formats, simplifying usage, distribution, and data exchange.
Availability
Databases can manage different data types—such as master data, transaction data, historical data, and even expired data. Data that is rarely or no longer used can be separated from the active system.
Completeness
Data completeness is relative. In a database, completeness depends heavily on the user's perspective, meaning that evaluations of completeness may vary.

In addition to their benefits and purposes, databases also have their own strengths and weaknesses.

Here are some of the advantages of databases:

Enhanced Data Independence
A single database can support various applications without requiring changes to the existing data format.
Data Consistency
By storing data in one place, any updates to the data are made only once, ensuring consistency across all users.
Improved Data Accessibility and Responsiveness
Databases improve data accessibility and response times. This is made possible by integrating data across different departments within an organization, allowing users direct access.
Reduced Data Redundancy
Databases store data in a single location, minimizing duplication and reducing storage costs.
Enhanced Data Security
Databases can be configured to restrict access to authorized users only. Security can be enforced through passwords and access rights for specific actions such as update, delete, insert, and select.
Improved Data Integrity
Data integrity refers to the validity and consistency of stored data. It is enforced through constraints, which are consistent and unbreakable rules. With controlled redundancy and maintained consistency, data becomes more accurate.
Concurrent Data Sharing
Data in a database is owned by the organization and can be shared simultaneously by authorized users.
More Information from the Same Data
Users can gain additional insights beyond routine information, as the database contains diverse data. Thus, both routine and ad-hoc informational needs can be met.

Below are some disadvantages of using databases:

High Cost
Databases can be expensive due to hardware and software purchase and maintenance costs. There are also additional costs for storage, networking, and other infrastructure.
Complexity
Designing, developing, administering, and using databases require a deep and detailed understanding. Failing to utilize the system properly can lead to significant losses for organizations.
Conversion Costs
Migrating from an old system to a new database system requires a substantial investment. This includes costs for staff training, new hires such as Database Administrators (DBAs), and other related expenses.

Reference:

• Ruliah, Suryadi Andri, 2024, Basis Data