Database Management

A database often forms the foundations of a school or organisations filing system. The purpose of which is to assist in organising and storing large volumes of data on a computer system which can be updated and modified as required. For schools, this is mainly sensitive data on their staff and students. For organisations, this information is on staff, customers prospects, stock levels, etc.

Database management software (DBMS) streamlines what was once a paper and filing system. The software manages this information and records it in digital files which users can call up almost instantaneously.

Database management software also keeps data guarded and safe, and helps schools and organisations comply with GDPR and other safeguarding regulation. These tools help in reducing data vulnerability and maintain the efficiency of data.

Students may also require access to a database management software for completing field studies, gathering data to complete assignments or collating information to complete a dissertation. The findings can be presented in an efficient way, increasing productivity and minimising time spent scrolling through spreadsheets. 

Over the years, database management software has evolved to be one of the most powerful administrative programmes in a school’s toolbox. One such example of a DBMS is FileMaker. Giving users the flexibility to build a custom database from scratch or develop one from an existing template, FileMaker circumvents the one size fits all approach to database management. The software also allows users to ‘snap together’ ad-ons to further customise their database.

In education, there is no one size fits all. Educational institutions have different requirements of their database management software and sometimes this means a custom app is required. By building a custom app to manage data and information, a school has more control over their systems.

There are many options of DBMS on the market. Some are less secure than others as some of them are open source and others are commercial with specific features. This can make choosing the right database management software tricky. Contacting a company like Douglas Stewart, who have extensive experience in the sector, will ensure you are buying the right software.