All our day to day activities are actually extensively recorded on 'databases'. Lots of people rarely think about it, but in actual fact much of what we do is noted and stored on many different Databases. 'Databases' hold & produce 'data' on our country's complete economy. Information such as share-values, bank documents and property-information are all indexed upon complex 'databases', & although plainly we can still get most of this detail on paper, digital records are much easier to access. Your purchase history is recorded onto a Database each time you make a payment electronically (that is with a card). Did you know that the reason you receive certain discounted offers from your regular store is because they've kept your buying habits on their Database & recognise what's likely to attract you? Just about all car workshops (and of course the police-force) make use of the DVLAs car registration number database to retrieve all of the details of any car or truck etc. recorded on the system. This Database is also employed as the basis for the congestion charge in the Capital and to identify road-tax avoidance, by operating jointly with the Cameras that adorn our roads.

Around the world, the most common database systems are 'Oracle' and Microsoft 'SQL' Server. 'Oracle' is a more mature System still being used on large scale installations, but SQL-Server is a lot more popular today in typical business environments; 'SQL' has become the 'de-facto' norm for Databases on the internet. Of course, as SQL-Server is owned by MS, the organisation has incorporated it into each of its programs and platforms. For those looking to become commercially qualified then, this is the recommended path to adopt. Certifications have now been up-dated, & the 'MCDBA' ('Microsoft Certified Database Administrator') has now been replaced by the 'MCITP' ('Microsoft Certified IT Professional') and the MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist). 'SQL' Server 2008 is gaining some momentum, but it really isn't generally used in the commercial arena just yet. As a result, the 'MCITP' DBA accreditation features the more popular SQL-Server 2005. As with some other Microsoft qualifications, a number of MCTS modules come before the final 'MCITP' accreditation.

We've shown that Databases undoubtedly are a key aspect of the life we live, so what sort of career paths exist within this industry? When we take the work of I.T. specialists, there are 2 fundamental Database sectors - Designing and constructing the databases - & the actual software that manages and allows access to them; & managing them - along with producing reporting systems that utilise that data. Database-Administrators are often referred to as DBA's, and this position is generally in most demand. A DBA will typically be employed by a mid-size or larger organisation, & manage the everyday operations of a certain database. DBAs handle the Security of the company's databases, make certain everything's backed up effectively, & utilise the information to create meaningful reports for management. They must have a professional understanding of SQL - the most common Database 'language'. Interrogating 'databases' to draw out information is standardised with 'SQL' (Structured Query Language).

Both 'DBAs' and DB developers are generally really methodical and organised individuals, that have a superb attention to detail, and appreciate performing in smaller teams, or by themselves. The work often calls for reporting to business management, & so self-confident communication-skills are required. Dealing with business databases is definitely a position of responsibility - and security is consistently growing to be a larger subject in this area. Business employers seek out professionals with integrity that they're able to rely on implicitly, & certain companies will in fact call for you to obtain security-clearance before giving you a job. Many people who have previously worked in business 'processing' or accountancy normally prosper in database Management. Many 'DBA's' achieve very good promotions to higher office because they inherently build up their business management skills.

If you're more interested in the 'development' aspect, Microsoft offer the MCITP DB Developer certification. This will include a lot of preliminary design, rationalisation and set up of databases, although doesn't seriously extend to full Database programming. For additional info on training in database programming, it's best to take a look at the actual Programming section of this site. In all honesty, there is a more significant desire for the Administrator aspect from both students and employers. However if you wish to become a developer, then our recommendation would be to add the DB Developer certification into a comprehensive set of Programming training. Over the next few years, you'll also find extra 'MCTS' accreditation in SQL Server '08 progressively more relevant.

IT & Office Skills Commercial Online Certification Courses >>