What is the need and role of a Data Base in an Organization?

Data are used by different people in different departments or different reasons. Therefore data management must address the concept of shared data.

The DBMS facilities :

1. Distribution of data and information to the right people at the right time.

2. Interpretation and presentation of data in useful formats by transforming row data in to information.

3. Data preservation and monitoring the data usage for adequate periods of time.

4. Control over data duplication & use both internally and externally.

What ever the type of organization, the data base’s predominant role is to support managerial decision making at all levels in the organization while preserving data privacy & security.

An organizations managerial structure might be divided in to 3 levels. Top level management: makes strategic decisions. Middle level management: makes tactical decisions Operational management level: makes daily operational decisions.

At the top management level the data base must be able to :

Provide the information necessary for strategic decision making planning , policy formation goals definition

Provide access to external & internal data to identify growth opportunities & to chart the direction of such growth.

Provide feed back to monitor whether the company is achieving its goals.

At the middle management level the data base must be able to :

Deliver the data necessary for tactical decisions & planning.

Monitor & control the allocation & use of company resources & evaluate the performance of the various departments.

Provide a framework for enforcing &ensuring the security & privacy of the data in the data base .security means protecting the data against accidental or intentional use by unauthorized users. Privacy deals with the rights of an individuals & the organization to determine the data usage.

At The Operational Management Level The Data Base Must Be Able To :

Represent & support the company operations as closely as possible.

Provide query results within specified performance levels.

Enhance company’s short term operational ability by providing timely information for customer support & the application development & computer operations.