Databases: Does Your Business Need One?

In today’s modern world, there isn’t a single business that doesn’t hold or manage a significant portion of data. Perhaps it’s data regarding their current stock levels; maybe it’s confidential information about their latest clients. Whatever form your data takes, how else will you hold it efficiently and successfully than by using a database?

There are many myths regarding databases, even though they are at work across the country, across every sector and every industry right now. Even if you run a personal blog or freelance business, a database is a tool which can enhance how you manage a workload and your customer’s experience working with you.

Creating and developing a database may seem an expense, especially for a small, newly-launched business. However, it truly can drastically improve business performance. Not only can a database simplify processes, in particular, if you use one in a warehouse capacity, but it can also track important metrics, such as planning for growth.

Is There More Than One Type Of Database?

The short answer to that question is, yes. There is a number of varieties available, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and Oracle. Each one offers something different for the user experience:

• MySQL: This free resource is the most popular and easy-to-use, making it ideal for those new to the world of database management and development.
• PostgreSQL: An older system, but one which incorporates the four concepts and allows users to expand it as they grow. Often referred to as ‘Postgres,’ this is a free source also.
• MongoDB: A cross-platform program which displays data in document form, making it ideal to hold massive amounts of crucial data to gain insight into what your customers are doing.
• Oracle: A multi-model system which is the most popular database for running online transactions, and mixed data workloads. For those running e-commerce businesses, Oracle is the recommended system. The latest generation, Oracle 12c, is available in a hybrid Cloud environment, perfect for remote workers and those who often travel for business.

Developing The Perfect Database

Creating a database which is not only easy to use but is able to grow with your business is an investment worth making. However, knowledge of JavaScript, Ruby, and PHP, amongst others, is needed to develop a database yourself.  The benefit of building a database for your business in tandem with a team of professionals is that you receive a bespoke system, tailored to your unique business. Not only will it suit your current needs, but you can effectively create a database which will easily allow you to scale it up in the near future as your business evolves. To create a database-driven website, starting with MySQL is recommended.

What Can My Business Use A Database For?

If you are running an e-commerce business, a database will be integral to your success. By inputting the essential data into an easy-to-use system, you can access information about your products, your sales, and your customers wherever you are and as quickly as you can. If there are any market changes which come into effect, having a centralized system means you can respond to the changes. For example, if a bestselling item becomes sold out, you can update your system to mean that no one else is able to select that product to buy. A bespoke database will hold vital information about every product, including supplier information which is crucial when you are trying to fulfill customer demand. It can also store information on your customers, such as the demographic, so you know who to target with your new product launches and your marketing campaign.

Once reserved for complicated IT companies, a database is the only way to manage and store vital information when you run a business in today’s data-driven world. Flexible and innovative, choosing a system tailored to your needs can help your company run smoothly, fulfilling customer demand and keeping confidential information safe.