There are many types of databases, which can be categorized based on their functions and capabilities. Some databases are more popular than others. Let’s explore ten of the most common databases and the types of tasks they can be used for.
1. Relational Databases
Relational databases are most common and can be used across industries, including retail, medical, information technology and warehousing. In this database, information is stored in different data tables and connected to other tables. All the tables are related to each other using various key fields, hence the name relational. Some names you may know are Oracle, Microsoft Access and Microsoft SQL.
2. Operational Databases
Organizations work with large amounts of information, such as inventory, purchases, transactions and financials. In an operational database, all data is collected in a central location where it can be changed and manipulated according to the company needs. Also included are other databases that are needed to run the organization, including customer databases and inventory databases.
3. End-User Databases
The end users in an organization have access to some, but not all, information. These “workstations” act as small databases and can be accessed by the end user. Included in the database are spreadsheets, presentations, word files, downloaded files and notepads.
4. Distributed Databases
Many organizations are large and manage several different locations, regional offices, branch offices and manufacturing plants. To keep information organized and accessible, each department will have their own database that feeds into the main database. This is called a distributed database.
5. Analytical Databases
Analytical databases store information from various databases, such as pre-selected operational databases and external databases. The data stored in an analytical database is used for analytic purposes only. Unlike other databases, the information is read-only and cannot be changed or manipulated.
6. Real-Time Databases
Some things change so quickly, organizations would be analyzing outdated information if they didn’t have real-time databases. Real-time databases handle information that keeps changing and have the ability to update data every minute or less. Examples of industries that require real-time databases are banking, accounting and reservation systems.
7. Hypermedia Databases
A hypermedia database contains multimedia such as images, video clips and audio files. This data may need to be stored alongside information to expand on ideas or make sense of what’s there. In this database, users click on a link that brings them to interconnected multimedia pages.
Conclusion
Relational databases are most common and include some of the biggest names out there such as Microsoft Access and SQL Server. However, there are times when a basic relational database isn’t enough to store, manage and share information across an organization. If this happens, you’ll need to educate yourself on other database options or work with a database management company like Arkware to find the perfect solution.