Week 1

1.5 What is a Database Management System (DBMS)?

A DBMS is a software system that enables users to define, create, maintain, and control access to a database. It acts as an intermediary between users/applications and the physical data stored on disk.

Popular DBMS products include:

DBMS

Type

Common Use Cases in Nigeria

MySQL

Relational (Open Source)

Web applications, fintech, e-commerce (Jumia, Konga)

PostgreSQL

Relational (Open Source)

Enterprise systems, geospatial applications

Oracle Database

Relational (Commercial)

Banking (most major Nigerian banks), telecoms

Microsoft SQL Server

Relational (Commercial)

Government systems, ERP implementations

MongoDB

Document (NoSQL)

Mobile apps, real-time analytics, content platforms

SQLite

Relational (Embedded)

Mobile apps (Android/iOS), embedded systems