Database Development Tools

When designing a new application, there are a variety of database development tools out there that the developer can choose from. However, in database development one tool does not meet the needs of all jobs. Thus the developer's objective becomes, selecting the right tool to meet the demands of the specific project.

File/Server vs. Client/Server

To make sure the appropriate tool is selected for the job, there are several factors the developer needs to think about. Perhaps the first thing to consider is what type of database development tool will best meet the needs of the users. Basically, there are two categories to choose from; those classified as File/Server and those classified as Client/Server.

The File/Server tools are generally configured to run locally off the user's computer. However, the tools can be expanded to transfer data between users by utilizing a file server. Examples of this type of tool are Microsoft Access, Microsoft Visual Fox Pro and Paradox.

One the other hand, Client/Server tools require dedicated server space to operate. These types of database development tools process data at the server level and then transfer the information back to the user's workstation. Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle and Sybase are examples of this kind of tool.

Size Does Matter

When deciding on which database development tool will best meet the needs of the job, the developer needs to determine how many users will be accessing the application and exactly how much data the system will be required to store. File/Server tools were originally developed for single users, but can work well for up to 200 users. The tables in these tools can store around 2 GB (gigabytes) of data.

Whereas Client/Server database development tools can handle an unlimited amount of users at once, these tools are also capable of storing up to 32 TB (terabytes) of data. Of course, the extra features contained in the Client/Server tools come with an expanded price tag.