Selecting database software: analyzing your needs

Efficient database management means reducing the number of redundant data elements to increase retrieval time and decrease storage needs. Overzealous database users can decrease their productivity by tracking everything. Ask these questions. Would this data be tracked if a computer were not in use? Are the data being tracked useful? Are the data being tracked easily retrieved? Clinical tracking, monitoring research projects, task analysis, personnel reviews, productivity analysis, and quality assurance are a few of the applications for a DBMS. Selecting a system to meet identified needs will require some homework. Visit a local bookstore and call database sales professionals. A prepared needs assessment will provide these professionals with the necessary information to assist in the right product selection.