Role Insights: Database Administrator

Let us learn about a Database Administrator today. There seem to be many confusions about the role. Let us clarify that.

A Database Administrator (DBA) is someone who manages databases, creates and oversees security, storage and also troubleshoots issues in the same.

They play an important role in any organization, be it a corporate, educational institution or a government office. DBAs ensure that the database is protected, maintained, organised and updated on a regular basis.

What is a database?

A database is a set or collection of information that is stored as per the needs of the organisation. It can be accessed and used as and when required.

It could be files about financial transactions, employee information, company specific details, transactions, plans etc. There are Database management systems, using which one can organise, access and store information as relevant to an organisation.

How does a DBA work?

DBAs usually work with data analysts to provide them the right access to data as and when needed. They need to understand the plans and goals of the organisation and utilisation of the database. They need to communicate with various teams like developers, analysts, managers, sales etc and evaluate what action to take towards its performance, how to collate data and accordingly provide access to the right set of people only.

Job brief (ref: www.workable.com)

A professional database administrator (DBA) will keep the database up and running smoothly 24/7. The goal is to provide a seamless flow of information throughout the company, considering both backend data structure and frontend accessibility for end-users.

Responsibilities Build database systems of high availability and quality depending on each end user’s specialised role Design and implement database in accordance to end users information needs and views Define users and enable data distribution to the right user, in appropriate format and in a timely manner Use high-speed transaction recovery techniques and backup data Minimise database downtime and manage parameters to provide fast query responses Provide proactive and reactive data management support and training to users Determine, enforce and document database policies, procedures and standards Perform tests and evaluations regularly to ensure data security, privacy and integrity Monitor database performance, implement changes and apply new patches and versions when required

Requirements Proven working experience as a Database administrator Hands-on experience with database standards and end user applications Excellent knowledge of data backup, recovery, security, integrity and SQL Familiarity with database design, documentation and coding Previous experience with DBA case tools (frontend/backend) and third party tools Familiarity with programming languages API Problem solving skills and ability to think algorithmically BS degree in a computer discipline or relevant certification KEY SKILLS: (www.computerscience.org)

• SQL: SQL, a computer language, orients and organizes all data management systems. Students should understand the three dominant database languages: Microsoft SQL, Oracle Database, and IBM's DB2. Professionals may need to build websites with MySQL, create relational connections among multiple datasets with Transact-SQL, and control object-oriented concepts with PL/SQL.

• UNIX: This portable, multi-user, multitasking operating system interface is made available by The Open Group. Written in C programming language, UNIX provides the organizational foundation for most Mac, Android, Chrome, and PlayStation systems. Therefore, it represents a critical building block for database management and administration.

• Linux: Modeled after UNIX, the open-source operating system Linux operates with versatility to control a variety of computer systems, including smartphones and supercomputers. Linux is free to install, and users can access online coding and troubleshooting hacks to create comprehensive platforms for clients and companies.

• Oracle: A relational database framework oriented through SQL, Oracle provides access to and organizes datasets. It also integrates information into user-friendly platforms for companies and institutions. Similar to SQL, Oracle works with most major platforms, including Windows, UNIX, Linux, and Mac OS.

• Windows Operating System: Windows OS represents the orienting graphic interface for all Microsoft products. The core operating system for Microsoft desktops and programs, Windows differs from Linux and UNIX systems in that it is corporately owned and not openly accessible. Currently, Windows OS is the dominant system worldwide.

• Data Analysis: By inspecting, collating, and interpreting datasets, data analysts translate massive bodies of information into useful and illustrative material for companies and clients. Analysts also use analytical interpretation to streamline systems by cleaning datasets, which involves prioritizing and itemizing metadata, and by providing insights on system improvements.

• Microsoft Access: This is the key information management tool behind referencing, reporting, and data analysis in data administration. MS Access translates metadata sets, particularly from Microsoft Excel sheets, into usable, searchable datasets. Database administrators use this tool to prioritize relationships among datasets and coalesce materials.

• HTML: HTML, or Hypertext Markup Language, forms the graphics of platform and website design. Professionals create interactive systems and webpages using this standard coding language, which integrates scripting languages such as JavaScript. HTML is the bedrock of computer programming, so database administrators must understand it.

KEY SOFT SKILLS:

• Analytics: The ability to systematically analyze data or statistics helps database administrators identify and meet their companies' data management needs. Database administrators often conduct updated analyses of their databases, as well.

• Business-Focused: Companies trust database administrators to make cost-effective decisions regarding technology and staff for data storage, maintenance, security, and analysis. Technical and business knowledge and skills make database administrators more valuable and versatile.

• Communication: Database administrators often supervise other IT staff, and good communication skills prove valuable to IT teamwork and leadership. Database administrators also communicate with executive management, suppliers, and technology professionals at other organizations.

• Problem-solving: The capacity to identify, test, and eliminate potential problems and their causes is extremely valuable to database administrators, who spend a considerable amount of time troubleshooting. Creativity also comes into play, as database administrators often need to generate new solutions to new problems.

• Organization: Databases require considerable organization, and database administrators organize data to make database decisions and create reports. They also organize IT department tasks and employees.

Keywords to search for the right candidate: Oracle, DBA, database, RDBMS, storage management, database administration, unix scripting, RAC, performance tuning, SQL, communication, technical support, troubleshooting, patching, backup, dataguard, RMAN, OEM, Exadata, Linux, Data warehousing Salary range:

Interview Questions: https://www.indeed.com/hire/interview-questions/database-administrator https://resources.infosecinstitute.com/ramp-5-levels-top-50-database-administrator-interview-questions/#gref https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/dba-interview-questions Jargons used by DBAs: https://raima.com/database-terminology/