A History of Databases

Abstract

In Chap. 1 we discussed data as an organisational asset. We saw data, usually in the form of records has been with us since at least ancient Egyptian times. We also so that the big drivers of the need to keep detailed records were trade and taxation. Electronic computers provided an accurate and fast way of recording and calculating data. The first commercial computers appeared in the early 1950’s and with these Data could now be processed much faster and with fewer errors compared with manual systems and a greater range of reports which were more up to date could be produced. Initially the processing required whole files to be processed—sequential processing but with advancing hardware technologies and falling prices direct access to data meant it was possible to update individual records without having to process an entire file. It also meant data needed to be structured to avoid duplication and make efficient use of electronic storage. Initially this was in the form of hierarchical and network structures. In 1970 Edgar Codd provided the theoretical framework which was developed into relational data structures. This became the basis of many of the systems which are in use today. Relational databases were designed to optimise disk usage and performance, but the very nature of a hard disk meant there were speed limitations. Now memory based systems which require different structuring to data are appearing. The evolution of database is continuing.