What does "purpose of the database" mean?
http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/D/database.html
for which of the following purposes can a database be used?
The "purpose of the database" refers to the main reason or objective for creating and using a database. It is important to define the purpose because it helps guide the design and implementation of the database, as well as determines the type of information it will store and the functionality it will provide.
To determine the purpose of a database, you can follow these steps:
1. Identify the specific needs or requirements of the organization or system for which you are creating the database. This could involve understanding the business processes, user requirements, and the overall goals of the organization.
2. Consider the type of data that needs to be stored and managed. Determine if the data is primarily structured (in tabular form), semi-structured (with some organization), or unstructured (such as free-form text).
3. Determine the intended use of the database. Will it be used for transaction processing, reporting, analytics, or a combination of these? This will help define the required functionality and features of the database.
4. Consider the scalability and future requirements of the database. Think about potential growth, anticipated changes in data volume and usage, as well as integration with other systems.
5. Consult with stakeholders, such as end-users, management, and IT departments, to gain input and align the purpose with their needs.
By defining the purpose of the database, you set a clear direction for its design, development, and usage, ensuring that it meets the specific requirements and objectives of the organization or system it supports.