Databases vs. Spreadsheets - Essay Example

Databases vs. SpreadsheetsWe have a wide variety of solutions for storing a large amount of data but spreadsheet and a database are commonly used methods. Basically, the simplicity of creating and maintaining a spreadsheet makes it an excellent option. However, in case we want to store a lot of data, or if our sharing and security needs are critical, we need to develop a database. In addition, there are many serious drawbacks of using spreadsheet for data storage for instance it is awkward to recover or access data from any however the unsophisticated queries, provides little or no data authentication and validity as well as little or no protection in opposition to data corruption from well-meaning but inexperienced and inadequately trained users.

I have presented below a detailed comparison between a spreadsheet and a database: (Barett; IGetIt; Hurn).A database element can store simply the data for which it is created on the other hand spreadsheets offer the flexibility. In this scenario, any cell can be used to store and maintain numbers, text or charts.As compared to spreadsheets, databases are well-organized and efficient for the reason that heir structured approach allows its users to process and access thousands of records promptly.

If someone wants to gather and process data quickly, spreadsheets are simple to create from scratch. On the other hand, the creation of a database requires more up-front design work.The capacity of a spreadsheet to store data is generally limited by how much memory a user can assign. On the other hand, databases are created to store and process many millions of records.Databases give a wide variety of dimensions of security for instance by user, table and element. On the other hand, someone can only lock a spreadsheet with a password.

Databases can be used by thousands of users at the same time. On the other hand, spreadsheets are not created to be used and updated by more than one person at a time.From the above discussion it is clear that a database is essential for storing a large amount of data in a secure way. A database is essential for storing banking data, human resource and other similar data where security and efficiency are critical.2. The selection of a database depends on the nature of the application. However, I would recommend Oracle Database, which a well-known database development tool.

I have recommended Oracle Database because it provides to its users some of the excellent capabilities such as scalability, leading performance, security and reliability in all the environments such as Windows, UNIX and Linux. In addition, it offers a wide variety of tools and functionalities to effortlessly handle the most difficult business intelligence, transaction processing and content management applications (Oracle).Works CitedBarett, J.T. Spreadsheets Vs. Databases. 2012. 01 June 2012 .

Hurn, Shannon. Comparing Databases and Spreadsheets for Storing Data. 01 December 2003. 10 June 2012 .IGetIt. Spreadsheets vs Database. 2012. 02 June 2012 .Oracle. Oracle Database 11g Documentation. 2012. 04 June 2012 .