Advantages And Disadvantages Of A Flat File Database

Flat File Database

Definition of a Flat File database

A flat file/ flat form database is a system that stores data within a single table. It is known as a flatform database due to it only containing a two dimensional structure (data fields and records).

Features:

- The database contains data fields which is the name of each piece of data being collected example address meaning that there will be a list of multiple addresses contained within that column.

- The database also contains records which is the information of each individual for example when you want to find out information about a particular person you could search there name and the database will show all the data collected within each data field for that certain individual.

Advantages:

This can reduce the risk of the data being loss as the database can be saved in a variety of different forms.

- This type of database makes it simple for the editor to update as the data is split into separate data fields instead of multiple tables.

Disadvantages:

- The database doesn’t require a relational link meaning that when information is changed for one individual it will not automatically change for all the records of that individual meaning that you would have to find each record of that person and change it for all the records data collected for that person.

- The database normally involves you repeatedly writing the same data which can cause many issues such as human error meaning that mistakes could be made causing records not to be presented when looking for records about a particular person.

- When updating the database it can be often hard to identify any errors contained within the database as multiple records of data is contained within the database

- The flat file database doesn’t prevent similar data being typed for two individuals which could cause confusion as it would bring up multiple records for multiple people with similar records making it hard to find out information about a

- The database also contains data fields which labels each file within the database allowing you to understand which data is contained in which file.

- It also consists of records which allow you to retrieve data about a particular individual in the database.

Advantages:

- You don’t need to change multiple records as the files in the database are relationally linked to each other. This also makes it simple to edit and update as the data within each record will automatically be changed as you change one record.

- Reduces the risk of human error or duplication meaning that you don’t have to worry of about the risk records not being showed up.

- The security is much more secure and the data is well protected as when you access the database you will have limit access to all the records and you will only be allowed to view certain records unless you have authorised access to the records.