Relational database: a practical foundation for productivity

ABSTRACT

It is well known that the growth in demands from end users for new applications is outstripping the capability of data processing departments to implement the corresponding application programs. There are two complementary approaches to attacking this problem (and both approaches are needed): one is to put end users into direct touch with the information stored in computers; the other is to increase the productivity of data processing professionals in the development of application programs. It is less well known that a single technology, relational database management, provides a practical foundation for both approaches. It is explained why this is so.

While developing this productivity theme, it is noted that the time has come to draw a very sharp line between relational and nonrelational database systems, so that the label "relational" will not be used in misleading ways. The key to drawing this line is something called a "relational processing capability."

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Index Terms

• Information systems

  • Data management systems

    • Database design and models

    • Database management system engines

• Social and professional topics

  • Professional topics

    • Management of computing and information systems

      • Project and people management

• Software and its engineering

  • Software notations and tools

    • Compilers