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The capability of receiving downloaded data
from a mainframe or another microcomputer
The ability to be used on a network
The ability to enable quick and easy setup of
screen formats
The ability to handle a maximum number of
records, fields, tables, and so on, and the size of
each
The ability of the software to accept files in
multiple formats and to transport files and
records out to other microcomputer packages
LOGICAL STRUCTURE OF A
DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
To decide on the logical structure to use with a
DBMS, you will need to first perform a comprehensive
review of the data. Determine what data is needed,
where the data comes from, and how the data will be
used. Look at the reports needed. Find out what
transactions and displays are most appropriate for
collecting and manipulating the data. At this point, you
can determine what programs and queries will need to
be developed and decide on the best organization for the
data.
The programmer will be the one to decide the
organization of the database and to define the physical
structures of the database management system.
Programs to process the transactions and to generate the
anticipated management information and decision
support reports are mapped out, using the pseudocode
and flowcharts. Once the programs are mapped out,
they are written, tested, and implemented, creating the
database management system.
SUMMARY
As a communications specialist, you need to know
a lot more about computers than just how to operate
them. You must have a good working knowledge of
computer software. You should be able to explain and
demonstrate how to use systems and applications
software to both communications specialists and end-
user personnel. You will need to interact with the users
to determine their requirements and needs. We covered
how to determine system software and hardware
requirements and the importance of calculating
memory requirements.
We discussed the parts of a
database management system (DBMS) and the
selection process for a DBMS, including those for
personal computers.
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