IT & MCIS
DEFINITION
OF STANDARD:
A relational database
is organized and accessed according to relationships between data items.
In a relational database, files are referred to as tables, records are
called rows, and fields or data elements are called columns. In its simplest
form, a relational database is a collection of data files or tables that
relate to each other through at least one common field. Relational databases
are typically packaged and sold by software vendors as relational database
management systems (RDBMS). Relational database technology has several
inherent advantages over previous hierarchical and proprietary platforms.
RATIONALE:
A limited product
set will produce important benefits including economies-of-scale respecting
procurement, facilitation of efficient skills transferability required
by a mobile workforce, efficient data interchange between higher education
departments, and minimization of skills requirements for a competency-team
development approach.
PUBLICATION
DATE: May 10,
1999
REVIEW
DATE: May 28,
2003
REVIEW CYCLE: 6
months
RESPONSIBLE CONTACT:
Keith LaVey keith@email.uky.edu
TIMELINE:
Revision date: May 28, 2003
Effective date: November 16, 2001
Recommended
Standard(s):
ANSI
SQL-92
Recommended
Product(s):
Enterprise Database Servers
Oracle 9i
Microsoft SQL Server
Desktop Databases
Justification:
The ability to access, analyze and transfer information quickly across
a variety of networks and protocols is increasingly important in today's
higher education environment. The information system industry's traditional
hierarchical, proprietary database products lack the necessary underlying
technology to meet these new demands.
Technical
Considerations:
Departments are encouraged to buy a database engine capable of scaling
application growth and hardware upgrades. The database applications should
be portable to accommodate hardware or operating systems changes. Avoid
databases that will work only with a particular operating system. Since
databases require constant support, staff should be allocated to maintain
the database engine. Note: More functional search engines require additional
training and functional dedication of support staff.
For
more information:
Information Technology Documents
& Policies