It is an electronic filing system. Files, records and fields are the traditional methods of organizing database. A single part of information is field and one complete set of fields is called a record.
In database design it is alternatively called Hypertext. Any object, whether it is a picture, a film or a piece of text can be connected (linked) to any other object. Information from a database can be accessed through Database Management System (DBMS). DBMS is a group of programs through which you can enter, select and organize data in a database.
The important role of a Database Administrator is to supervise the installation and continuing operations of a software system which has been designed for use by various users. Database Administrators have to install new databases, create backup records of information contained in databases and upgrade the system and make available new releases from time to time. Today with the expansion of the role of Database Administrator, he is also called upon to take up the functions which are generally associated with Database Designer or Analyst like basic designing and customization of the fields or functions. He should also be competent enough to write complex SQL (Structured Query Language).
In the profession of Database Administrator, there are three types of Database Administrators, i.e., Application DBA, Development DBA and System DBA. Application DBA is required by organizations that have bought software for third party applications like Enterprise Resource Planning and Customer Relationship Management including SAP, PeopleSoft, Siebel and Oracle Applications. Data designing, maintenance, generation of language of data definition, tuning and writing SQL coding etc., are the functions of Development Database Administrator. Role of System DBA includes installation, upgrading, refreshing, and backup, maintenance and all such physical aspects of database administration.
To help Database Administrators to manage the system, DBMS software is provided with certain native tools. SQL Server Enterprise Manager is provided along with Microsoft SQL Server; Oracle Enterprise Manager/Grid Control and SQL Plus are the tools of Oracle. Besides this, other parties like SQL Maestro Group, EMS Database Management Solutions, Embarcadero Technologies, BMC and Quest Software provide GUI tools. All these tools help DBAs to perform DBMS functions in a more convenient manner.
In the year 2007, the Database Administrator, according to Robert Half International, which is involved in providing specialized staffing services, had an earning in the range of $70,250 to $102,000.
Various educational institutions offer professional courses and programs to learn about the job functions of Database Administrator. These institutions also offer late night programs for candidates that are already in employment. Some certificate programs have also been offered by DBMS suppliers like Oracle, Microsoft and IBM so that the requirement of companies to hire a qualified DBA professional is fulfilled. In the coming decade of 2006 to 2016, the profession of a Database Administrator is projected to record a fast growth which makes growth potential for a well experienced, qualified and skilled professional brighter.
