A database is a shared collection of logically related data with descriptions designed to satisfy the information needs of an organisation. The key idea behind the database concept is separating the data from the application program (data independence)

Some common uses of databases are in large shops and supermarkets. The databases can be linked directly to the operations of the business. For example,
bar codes on items for sale can be linked to products in the company's database so that stock levels can be maintained and pricing details can be applied centrally from the database rather than on each individual item.

The database approach was developed and adopted because of the problems associated with data being stored within application programs or within file based systems. The problem with data being stored within application programs was that it was hard to access from other places and there were limits to what could be done with the data.

There are three main areas within the relational model that can be focused on:

- Data Structure
- Data Integrity
- Data Manipulation

These topic areas will be discussed throughout the notes on Database Systems.

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