When choosing a database for your business, the options are plentiful: Oracle, SQL Server and Microsoft Access, to name a few. Since implementing a database into your organization will require resources and a learning curve, you want to make the best decision from the start. Otherwise, you could be looking at having to replace your database in the near future.
Below are some helpful tips for choosing a user-friendly database for your organization.
Define Your Needs
The first step in selecting a database is to know what your business needs to be successful. If you run a small business and handle customer orders, inventory, etc., a desktop database like Microsoft Access should be sufficient. It’s not too confusing, and it has all of the functions you need to run a business.
On the other hand, if you are part of a large corporation with thousands of users, a server database will probably be best. Server databases are more powerful, but they come with a higher price tag and require high-performance servers.
Evaluate Desktop Options
If you choose a desktop database, you’ll have many simple, cost-effective options at your fingertips. These databases handle less complex storage needs and are able to run on a desktop or personal computer. A few of the benefits to desktop databases are:
- Inexpensive. Most desktop solutions are around $100. Microsoft Access is usually a great database to start with because it’s already included with a Microsoft Office subscription.
- User-friendly. Desktop databases are generally straightforward and easy to use. Microsoft Access has a similar look and feel to other Microsoft programs, including Excel, so most beginners are able to jump right in and feel comfortable using it.
- Web solutions. With recent upgrades, most database programs allow you to publish data on the internet to share with other users.
Evaluate Server Options
Some organizations need more than a desktop database to run their operations. If you need something more scalable, a server database is probably best. Examples of server databases include Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle. The benefits to server solutions are:
- Excellent performance. Server-based databases are powerful and do nearly anything you request of them. They can manage high-speed processors, storage technology and clustered servers.
- Flexible. One of the reasons why organizations opt for server-based databases is because they are flexible and support many users at once time. All data is updated simultaneously as well.
- Scalability. Server databases are able to handle expanding users or data with no problems. This makes growing an organization more efficient.
Today’s businesses have a number of user-friendly databases to choose from. The best approach is to define your needs and choose the solution that supports them without going overboard. If you need assistance choosing the right database for your business, contact the Arkware team today.