Types of Databases

Different software applications can be used to collect data:

Plain text editor Offers simple editing and retrieval.
Word processor Adds tables and simple calculations.
Spreadsheet program Adds more sophisticated calculations.
Database Management System (DBMS) Adds formats, structures, rules for validating and manipulating data, etc.

Real databases utilize database management software like Microsoft Access or Oracle.

There are four main ways in which databases are organized:

  1. Flat

  2. Hierarchical

  3. Relational

  4. Object-Oriented

Next ...