Question

Contrast the logical and physical views of data, and duscuss why separate views are necessary in database applications. Describe which perspective is most useful for each of the following employees: a programmer, a manager, and an internal auditor. How will understanding logical data structures assist you when designing and using database systems?

Answer 1

Logical View: The logical view is the first hand view of the creator of the data/database. It’s basically is a kind of prototype view which gives the creator a window to assess how the user experience would be. Based on the views the creator can modify to suit the end user. Logical view is more specific to the needs of end user. Logical view is created with exhaustive options which can be used based on the requirements.

Physical View: Physical view is nothing but view of the data which is stored, processed and organized in storing devices.

Programmer: Logical view because he is the application programmer and needs to have a in and out look of the database.

Manager: Logical view because he is the end user and has the freedom to use the application in and out. Based on his needs he can limit the options accordingly.

Internal auditor: Again a logical view since he has to look at all the exhaustive options available to conduct audit.

Understanding data structures is the foundation for building it. As soon as an application launches the data starts pouring in. The data needs to be processed and stored accordingly to make use of the same in future. Data structures facilitate to manage large amount of data efficiently which is intern the foundation to build database systems.