A database together with a database management system is the backbone of an efficient information system.

Accuracy means that the information is free from mistakes and errors.

Timeliness means getting the information to the recipients within the needed time frame.

Relevancy means the use of a piece of information for a particular person.

A collection of data designed to be used by different people is called a database.

A field is a single piece of information.

A record is one complete set of fields.

A file is a collection of records.

Data are binary computer representations of stored logical entities.

A program is a collection of instruction for manipulating data.


Data dictionary is a file that defines the basic organization of a database.

Relationships represent a correspondence between the various data elements.

Constraints are predicates that define correct database states.

Schema describes the organization of data and relationships within the database.