Database Systems Environment

"Database system" refers to an organization of components that define and regulate the collection, storage, management, and use of data within a database environment.

1. Hardware

   Modern databases are stored in specially designed computer systems so the hardware component would include devices such as
   
   
   • computer box/tower
   • peripherals(monitor, mouse, keyboard etc)
   • Network components( Switches, routers etc)

2. Software

   The group of programs used by the computers within the database system
   
   
   1. Operating System
   • This manages all hardware components and makes it possible to run other software
   2. DBMS software
   • Manages the database within the database system(e.g. Microsoft Access, SQL Server, Oracle & DB2)
   3. Application programs and Utilities 
   • These manage and manipulate data in the DBMS and manage the computer environment where the data access and manipulation takes place.

3. People

   All the users of the database system,
   
   
   1. System Administrators
   • Handle the general database systems operation.
   2. Database Administrators
   • Manage the DBMS use and make sure it is functioning.
   3. Database Designer
   • Design the database structure. They are responsible in creating an effective useful design.
   4. System Analysts and Programmers
   • Design and implement the application programs. They create and design data entry screen, reports and procedures for end users
   5. End Users 
   • People who use application programs to retrieve and gain information from the database

4. Procedure

   The rules and instructions that maintain the design, standard and use of the database system and its data.

5. Data

   A collection of facts stored in a database.
   
   Because information is gained from this row data, it is important to decide which data is to put into the database and how the data is to be organised.