Introduction to Databases

This chapter covers the basic concepts of database design followed by implementation of a specific relational database. The sample database, CSE_DEPT, is used as a running example. The chapter explains what are databases and database programs, and discusses various approaches to developing a database. It provides an overview on relational data model and entity‐relationship model. The chapter helps the readers to identify keys such as primary keys and foreign keys, define relationships, normalize the data, and implement the relational sample database. A modern day database is a structured collection of data stored in a computer. The computer programs used to create, manage, and query databases are known as a DataBase Management Systems. Database development process may follow a classical Systems Development Life Cycle. An alternative approach to developing a database is through a phased process which will include designing a conceptual model of the system that will imitate the real‐world operation.