Definition of a Database

When discussing databases, it refers to all the data stored within a system being organized into individual tables or files based on their respective functions. By storing data in such a structured way, it becomes easier to search for specific information, leading to more efficient data retrieval processes.

Within a single storage medium (such as a hard disk), multiple databases can be stored electronically. However, not all electronically stored data can be categorized as a database. For example, saving documents on a hard drive might include word processing files, spreadsheets, and other data types that are not necessarily structured in a database format.

The core concept of a database revolves around the organization, classification, grouping, and systematic arrangement of data based on their roles. This structure can involve separate files, tables, or the definition of columns/fields in each file or table.

Understanding the Term “Database”

The term database comes from two words: base and data. Their respective meanings are:

1. Base can be interpreted as a headquarters, warehouse, nesting place, or gathering point.

2. Data is defined as representations of real-world facts that represent objects such as humans (employees, students, customers), items, animals, events, concepts, conditions, and so on. These objects are recorded in the form of numbers, letters, text symbols, images, sounds, or combinations thereof.

When combined as a single unit, a database can be defined as:

1. A collection of related and well-organized data groups that can be efficiently and quickly reused when needed.

2. A set of interconnected data stored together in such a way that unnecessary repetition is avoided.

3. A collection of related files, tables, or archives stored in a single electronic storage medium. These files, commonly referred to as tables, serve as the primary components of a database. (Fathansyah, 2015)

Various sources have defined databases in different ways. One comprehensive and widely cited definition is from James Martin (1975), as quoted in the book Sistem Basis Data by Edhy Sutanta (2004, p.17):

“A database may be defined as a collection of interrelated data stored together without harmful or unnecessary redundancy to serve one or more applications in an optimal fashion; the data are stored so that they are independent of the programs that use the data; a common and controlled approach is used in adding new data and modifying and retrieving existing data within the database.”

A database can therefore be understood as a collection of interconnected data stored collectively within a medium. Even though the data is stored together and linked, it is organized in a way that avoids overlap or unnecessary duplication. If redundancy does exist, it should be minimal and well-managed.

Some key characteristics of data stored in a database include:

1. Data is stored in a structured manner to facilitate access and retrieval.

2. Data can be optimally utilized by one or more application programs.

3. Data is independent of the programs that access it.

4. Data is organized to allow easy and controlled addition, retrieval, and modification.

From these definitions, we can conclude that a database is an integrated collection of interrelated data designed to meet the information needs of an organization. Each table or file within the database serves to store data that is interconnected with other data.

Based on this understanding, a database should possess the following key characteristics:

1. Data-oriented structure.

2. Data can be accessed and utilized by different users or applications without requiring changes to the database itself.

3. The database can easily scale in terms of both volume and structure.

4. The data can accommodate the requirements of new systems.

5. Data can be accessed in a variety of ways.

6. Minimal data redundancy.

Reference:

       • Andri Suryadi, 2024, Database