84. Database Administrator

A Database Administrator (DBA) is crucial to any organization that has mission-critical information stored in its databases. DBAs are responsible for the design and administration of databases, and for ensuring that the highest level of data integrity is maintained. Database maintenance includes performance tuning, monitoring the logs for errors, performing backup and recovery procedures as well as tasks associated with the data stored in the database, which include data transfer, data replication and data cleansing. Essentially, the main role of a database administrator has to do with overseeing the installation and ongoing function of software on a system designed for use by a number of users. There are several specific responsibilities that the typical database administrator will perform in just about any corporate environment.

The duties of a database administrator vary and depend on the job description, corporate and Information Technology (IT) policies and the technical features and capabilities of the DBMS being administered. They nearly always include disaster recovery (backups and testing of backups), performance analysis and tuning, data dictionary maintenance, and some database design. Some of the roles of the DBA may include: Installation of new software — it is primarily the job of the DBA to install new versions of DBMS software, application software, and other software related to DBMS administration. It is important that the DBA or other IS staffing member’s test this new software before it is moved into a production environment.

Configuration of hardware and software with the system administrator — in many cases the system software can only be accessed by the system administrator. In this case, the DBA must work closely with the system administrator to perform software installations, and to configure hardware and software so that it functions optimally with the DBMS. Security administration — one of the main duties of the DBA is to monitor and administer DBMS security. This involves adding and removing users, administering quotas, auditing, and checking for security problems. Data analysis — The DBA will frequently be called on to analyze the data stored in the database and to make recommendations relating to performance and efficiency of that data storage. This might relate to the more effective use of indexes, enabling "Parallel Query" execution, or other DBMS specific features.

With just about all software, new releases and upgrades are made available from time to time. The database administrator will be aware of any new versions or upgrades to existing versions that could improve the efficiency of a currently installed database. Generally, a database administrator is authorized to upload free upgrades and install them at will. In the event that a new version is available, the administrator may work with others in the company to determine if the cost of replacing the existing database software is worth the investment. In more recent years, the role of the database administrator has expanded in some companies. The administrator may be called upon to take a basic design and customize the fields or functions to more effectively serve the needs of the corporation. While these types of projects are more commonly associated with a database analyst or designer, it is not uncommon for a database administrator in a small company to assume these roles.