• thinkigcse.com

Types of Databases

There are several common types of databases; each type of database has its own data model (how the data is structured). They include; Flat Model, Hierarchical Model, Relational Model and Network Model.

The Flat Model Database

In a flat model database, there is a two dimensional (flat structure) array of data. For instance, there is one column of information and within this column it is assumed that each data item will be related to the other. For instance, a flat model database includes only zip codes. Within the database, there will only be one column and each new row within that one column will be a new zip code.

flatfile-database

A flat file is a static document, spreadsheet, or textual record that typically contains data that is not structurally related. Flat files are called so because there is little that can be accomplished with the information contained in them other than reading, storing, and sending.

Flat files are typically basic data sets that are used for configuration data storage for applications and programs. The average computer user will not typically see them much. There are basic address book-like examples of a flat file that can be used, but modern users typically desire a more robust and sophisticated method of calling up their information than to rely on the limited capability of a flat file structure.

Flat files are commonly used by and found in database management systems, typically belonging in and organized into flat file databases. A flat file database is really nothing more than an organization criterion assigned to a sample set of flat files.

The Hierarchical Model Database

The hierarchical model database resembles a tree like structure, such as how Microsoft Windows organizes folders and files. In a hierarchical model database, each upward link is nested in order to keep data organized in a particular order on a same level list. For instance, a hierarchal database of sales, may list each days sales as a separate file. Within this nested file are all of the sales (same types of data) for the day.

The Relational Model

The relational model is the most popular type of database and an extremely powerful tool, not only to store information, but to access it as well. Relational databases are organized as tables. A table can have many records and each record can have many fields.

Tables are sometimes called a relation. For instance, a company can have a database called customer orders, within this database will be several different tables or relations all relating to customer orders. Tables can include customer information (name, address, contact, info, customer number, etc) and other tables (relations) such as orders that the customer previously bought (this can include item number, item description, payment amount, payment method, etc).

It should be noted that every record (group of fields) in a relational database has its own primary key. A primary key is a unique field that makes it easy to identify a record.

relational database

Relational databases help maintain data integrity and reduce data redundancy.

Data integrity refers to data that is accurate or correct or complete or as up-to-date as possible.

Data redundancy is a data organization issue that allows the unnecessary duplication of data within a database.

Exciting News!

IMPORTANT MESSAGE

Quizzes and worksheets on this website have been developed in Flash format. Flash is no more supported by browsers. Therefore, you might see blank pages on some instances. Install Flash player plugin for Chrome from Chrome Web Store. Click here 

Similarly, for other web browsers you will have to activate the relevant flash player plugins.

JOIN OUR ONLINE COURSES

New Youtube Channel - ThinkIGCSE

Hi Everyone, I have launched a new YouTube channel with more than a 100 videos on  Economics and Business Studies, tailored specifically for IGCSE and A Level and IBDP students.

Subscribe now and join us on this learning journey: @thinkIGCSE

Save
Cookies user preferences
We use cookies to ensure you to get the best experience on our website. If you decline the use of cookies, this website may not function as expected.
Accept all
Decline all
Read more
Analytics
Tools used to analyze the data to measure the effectiveness of a website and to understand how it works.
Google Analytics
Our website uses Google Analytics to understand how you interact with our site and improve your browsing experience. These cookies collect information in an anonymous form, including the number of visitors to the site, where visitors have come from, and the pages they visited. The data helps us analyze trends and user behavior to enhance our website's functionality and content.
Accept
Decline
Marketing
Set of techniques which have for object the commercial strategy and in particular the market study.
Marketing
Our website uses Google marketing cookies to deliver personalized ads and measure the effectiveness of our advertising campaigns. These cookies track your online activity to help us show you relevant ads on Google services and partner websites.
Accept
Decline