Database management is the organization and storage of data so that it can be accessed, maintained, and updated by personnel in an organization. A database management system (DBMS) is the software used to create and administer the database where the data is stored. Database management is important because it enables organizations to use data to fulfill customer needs, support business operations, and provide valuable insights for management.
A relational database management system (RDBMS) can satisfy the database needs of most organizations. Relational databases allow for multiple tables of information to be “related” or connected to each other in an organized and useful way. These databases are created and queried using structured query language (SQL) and form the backbone of operations for banks, airlines, and retailers alike.
Database management can also enable business intelligence applications, which can help organizations better understand their business and guide decision-making. These applications may require the creation of large data warehouses and exploratory data analysis made possible with software platforms such as MySQL.