Module 1: Introduction to Oracle Triggers
What are Triggers?
Definition and Purpose of Triggers in Databases
A trigger in Oracle is a specialized stored procedure that executes automatically in response
to specific events on a table or view in the database. They enforce business rules, maintain
data integrity, and support auditing and automation.
Purpose: Triggers automate actions such as:
Data Validation: Ensuring data meets predefined conditions.
Auditing: Logging changes to critical data.
Business Rules Enforcement: Maintaining data consistency.
Cascading Changes: Propagating updates or deletions to related records.
Types of Database Triggers in Oracle
1. 1. Before Triggers
Execution: Before the DML operation is applied.
Use Case: Validate or modify data pre-save.
2. 2. After Triggers
Execution: After the DML operation is complete.
Use Case: Logging or cascading changes.
3. 3. Instead of Triggers
Execution: Substitutes standard actions, often used with views.
Use Case: Enabling DML on non-updatable views.
Trigger Components
Events: INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE
Timing: BEFORE or AFTER
Statements: Modify data, log changes, or enforce constraints.
Example syntax:
CREATE OR REPLACE TRIGGER trigger_name
BEFORE INSERT ON table_name
FOR EACH ROW
BEGIN
-- Trigger logic
END;
Benefits and Limitations
Benefits
Automates enforcement of business rules.
Ensures data consistency and integrity.
Supports auditing by tracking changes.
Limitations
May degrade performance for high-frequency DML operations.
Can add complexity to debugging and troubleshooting.
Overuse can lead to hidden dependencies.
Best Practices
Use triggers sparingly and effectively.
Simplify trigger logic to avoid performance issues.
Regularly audit and optimize triggers for evolving systems.
This introduction provides a solid foundation on Oracle triggers. The next module will cover
the syntax, creation, and management of triggers.
