Uses for a Database

A database is a collection of data arranged for easy and quick searching and retrieval. There are databases in every aspect of everyday living. You can create a database to keep track of just about anything---from your video game collection, recipes, contacts and the inventory for a business.

Databases for Businesses

The business world depends on databases 24 hours a day/seven days a week. Inventory, order processing, payroll, accounting, shipping and transportation routing are often tracked within a main database that keeps the company functioning.

Databases for Educational Institutions

From elementary schools to colleges, educational institutions have used databases to keep track of students, grades, transfers, transcripts and other student data. There are even specialized database packages geared toward schools and colleges.

Databases for Non-Profit Organizations

Like businesses and educational institutions, non-profit organizations must have a system to keep track of information. Many charities and other non-profit groups use a database for keeping track of donations, volunteers, hours served in the community, clients helped and other information related to the organization.

Databases for Household and Family Management

The database also has a home in household and family management for many individuals and families. Many individuals/families use a database to keep track of family birthdays, bills and expenses within a home; addresses of friends and relatives; movie/DVD collections; and other lists.

Databases In Use Everyday

Each time you make a purchase and the sales clerk asks for a your address or ZIP code, your information is kept and stored in a customer database. These collections of data are used to send mailings of special offers, discounts and other deals.

References

• Definition of a Database

Resources

• Business Database - FileMaker
• Access Home Page