Databases are built upon several core principles and components that ensure data is stored, managed, and retrieved efficiently. Here are the fundamental concepts that form the backbone of any database system:
Data, Information, and Knowledge
- Data vs. Information:
Data refers to raw, unorganized facts (e.g., numbers, text) that have little meaning on their own. When data is processed and structured, it becomes information, which is meaningful and useful for decision-making. Accumulated information can lead to knowledge. - Importance:
Understanding this hierarchy is critical as it guides how data should be managed to extract actionable insights.