Republic of the Philippines
BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Magsija, Balilihan, 6342, Bohol, Philippines
Office of Instruction
Balance I Integrity I Stewardship I Uprightness
DATABASES AND DATABASE USERS
Introduction
In today’s digital world, data is often called the “new oil” because it powers decisions, operations, and
innovations. Almost every organization—schools, banks, hospitals, government offices, and businesses—
relies on databases to manage information effectively.
A database is not just a storage container; it is designed to ensure that data is organized, accurate,
accessible, and secure.
Equally important are the database users, the people who interact with the database. They have different
roles, levels of expertise, and responsibilities. Understanding these users is key to designing and managing a
useful and secure database system.
What is a Database?
• A database is a structured collection of related data that represents real-world information (called
the “mini-world”).
• A Database Management System (DBMS) is software that manages the database and allows users to
create, update, query, and secure data.
• Examples of DBMS: MySQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, MongoDB.
Key Characteristics of a Database
1. Organized – Data is stored in structured formats (tables, records, fields).
2. Reliable – Ensures accuracy and consistency of data.
3. Accessible – Provides tools and languages (like SQL) for easy access.
4. Secure – Protects sensitive data from unauthorized users.
5. Multi-user Support – Multiple people can use it at the same time without conflict.
Example: University Database
• Entities: Students, Courses, Faculty, Enrollment.
• Data Stored: Student ID, Names, Course Codes, Instructor Assignments, Grades. •
Use: Students check grades, teachers submit scores, registrar staff manages records.
Database Users
Different users interact with the database in different ways. Some use applications, others write direct
queries, while some manage the entire database system.
Types of Database Users
A. Naïve Users (End Users)
• Do not know database details; use applications that access the database.
• Interact with simple interfaces like forms, menus, or dashboards.
Examples:
• A bank customer using an ATM to withdraw money.
• A student checking grades on the school portal.
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Republic of the Philippines
BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Magsija, Balilihan, 6342, Bohol, Philippines
Office of Instruction
Balance I Integrity I Stewardship I Uprightness
• A customer buying online through an e-commerce app.
B. Casual Users
• Occasionally access the database, usually to retrieve information.
• Often use query languages or reporting tools.
Examples:
• A teacher generating a report of student performance.
• A manager retrieving monthly sales data.
C. Power Users
• Skilled users who create complex queries and analyses.
• Use advanced tools to get insights from data.
Examples:
• A business analyst running SQL queries for sales trends.
• A researcher extracting data for an academic study.
D. Database Administrators (DBAs)
• The “guardians” of the database.
• Responsible for managing, securing, and maintaining the database system.
Key Tasks:
1. Install and configure the DBMS.
2. Manage user accounts and permissions.
3. Perform backups and recovery.
4. Monitor performance and tune queries.
Example:
• An IT staff member ensuring the school’s student information database is secure and updated.
E. Application Programmers (Developers)
• Write software that interacts with the database.
• Use programming languages (like Java, Python, C#) combined with SQL.
Examples:
• A developer coding an enrollment system that stores and retrieves student data. •
A software engineer building an online ticket booking system.
F. Specialized Users
• Write special-purpose applications or perform tasks outside standard operations. •
Often work in scientific, AI, GIS, or data science domains.
Examples:
• A data scientist using a customer database to train a predictive model.
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Republic of the Philippines
BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Magsija, Balilihan, 6342, Bohol, Philippines
Office of Instruction
Balance I Integrity I Stewardship I Uprightness
• A geographer analyzing spatial data in a GIS database.
G. Standalone Users
• Use personal databases (like MS Access or SQLite) without a large DBMS. •
Usually for small projects or individual use.
Examples:
• A student storing project data in MS Access.
• A small business owner tracking expenses with a local database.
Real-World Example: University Database Users
• Students (Naïve Users): Log in to check grades.
• Faculty (Casual Users): Generate class lists.
• Registrar Staff (Application Programmers): Update student records. •
DBA: Ensures system is always available, secure, and backed up.
• Researchers (Specialized Users): Use student data for research studies.
Importance of Identifying Database Users
Understanding database users helps in:
• Designing user-friendly applications.
• Assigning proper access rights and security measures.
• Supporting efficient data management and decision-making.
• Preventing unauthorized access or misuse of data.
Summary / Key Takeaways
• A database is a structured collection of data managed by a DBMS.
• Different types of users interact with the database:
o Naïve Users: Use applications (simple interface).
o Casual Users: Retrieve data occasionally.
o Power Users: Perform complex queries and analysis.
o DBAs: Manage, secure, and maintain the system.
o Application Programmers: Build applications that access the database.
o Specialized Users: Perform advanced or unique tasks.
o Standalone Users: Use personal/small-scale databases.
• Identifying users helps in designing secure, efficient, and user-friendly database systems.
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