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Database Program vs. Spreadsheet Program

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Database program Vs. Spreadsheet program

When choosing which type of program you should use to manage your customer records, you need to know what the difference is between the two. Spreadsheets are designed to analyze data and sort list items, not for long-term storage of raw data. A spreadsheet should be used for ‘crunching’ numbers and storage of single list items. Spreadsheet programs provide the means for keeping inventory, statistical data modeling, and computing data. They also include graphing functions that allow for quick reporting and analysis of data. Spreadsheet programs are relatively easy to use, require little training to get started, and have the advantage that most data mangers are somewhat familiar with them. The disadvantages of spreadsheets include having to re-copy data over and over again to maintain it in separate data files, the inability to efficiently identify data errors, the lack of detailed sorting and querying abilities, and sharing violations among users wishing to view or change data at the same time. Additionally, spreadsheets are restricted to a finite number of records, and can require a large amount of hard-drive space for data storage. Databases require little or no duplication of data between information tables, and changes made to the data do not corrupt the programming. Databases offer better security to restrict users from accessing privileged information, and from changing coded information in the programming. Furthermore, the two most important benefits gained by using a database are the capacity to increase data integrity, and the ease of reporting and sharing data. So when do you know when to use a database vs a spreadsheet? When you are creating numerous spreadsheets containing similar data. Your hard drive is overrun with spreadsheet files. Spreadsheets are not allowing you the functionality extent that you

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