22-06-2013, 11:49 AM
Compare and Contrast OODBMSs and RDBMSs
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Introduction
Databases are used throughout the computer industry to store and manage data of different types and scales. To provide the best possible solution, several types of DBMSs are available to meet the needs of the specific business problem that needs to be addressed. The benefits and drawbacks of the two major types of DBMSs, Object Oriented Database Management Systems (OODBMSs) and Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMSs ) will be discussed in this paper.
Relational Database Management System
The most widely used DBMS is the Relational Database Management System (RDBMS). This system is based on a table structure that stores and manages data. A table is a predefined categories of datum that are made up of rows and columns. The columns store the fields that define the category of data. Each row holds a complete record for the table where the data is stored. Each table has a key field that uniquely identifies the table. The key field is the field that is used to create relationships between other tables in an effort to connect data. This type of organization allows data to be stored in smaller increments and then connected by through association. A key field is a unique field that identifies the table and allows relationships to be created between tables. Business rules are applied to the tables and fields to ensure the data is accessed and used properly. SQL (Standard Query Language) is the tool/language that is used to interact with and between tables to utilize the data in ways that is meaningful to the business rules.
Benefits and Drawback of Each System
Regardless of the preference, each DBMS has its benefits and drawbacks. OOBMS are documented as being easy to maintain as classes and objects can be developed and updated separate from the system. Performance is also high with OODBMSs as one can store complex datasets in their entirety and therefore process data more quickly. Due to the class structure, the data can be more easily distributed across networks as well as the distribution of work. A query language is not necessary since the interaction of the data is done by transparently accessing the objects. No keys are needed to identify the datasets or create connections between the relationships. Many developers find the programming time to be reduced with an OODBMS since objects inherit the characteristics of the classes. The use of classes also helps to ensure the integrity of the data. In addition, a class is reusable for the existing database and other databases so that it can be distributed more easily across networks.
On the other hand, Relational Database Management Systems (RDMS) are much easier to learn and create. Many of the available systems have a GUI interface that makes the technology available to people who are not highly technical. Since the database is not dependent on a complex schema, increasing the capability and size is relatively easy. Ad-hoc queries can also be added using Structured Query Language (SQL) once the production database has been completed. In addition, the data can be used independently as the tables are set up as separate entities rather than grouped in class.
Both systems have their drawbacks as well. OODBMSs have their drawbacks. They can be somewhat complex and difficult to learn due to the object oriented technology. When a change needs to be made to the database, the entire schema must be updated. Queries are dependent upon the system and therefore must be predetermined in the planning stages. Adding queries to the database after the fact is a difficult task.
Conclusion
Both types of database technologies provide a solution for the right type of project. The choice to use one vs. the other depends on the type of project, skills of the development group and the technology available for the company who is looking for a DBMS.