How MySQL Reigns as Nigeria’s Premier Database Choice

MySQL Database Concept

MySQL which stands as Number one amongst other databases has always remained as Nigeria’s premier database choice for businesses.

In this context, any organized storage, management and easy retrieval of DATA either in a small, medium, or large quantity is the simplest form of understanding what a database represents.

Databases are essential for managing and leveraging your data effectively across a wide range of businesses such as the one you are running presently, enabling the organization and individuals to make informed decisions, improve efficiency, get prompt reports to drive innovation.

MySQL is designed for startup to large enterprise with same effect and impact on that business with some easy-to-use functionalities i.e. having front-end Application using (SQL Developer)

We are going to be sharing a piece put together by Eiybase Solutions on

MySQL Database Life Cycle
Features of MySQL Database and how it relates with Nigeria Businesses
Who needs a Database?
Why is MySQL Database best for Nigerians?
How will MySQL Database make business more efficient and effective?
Requirements for setting up MySQL Database
Community of developers and contributors in Nigeria
A Case Study of MySQL Database Implementation

With this, i urge you to take a step in designing a database for your organization

MySQL Life Cycle

Create – Database, Tables
Insert – Populate data into tables of the database
Update – Change data within the entire database or a specific table
Delete – Remove data/record if any need arise
Generate report – To produce a presentable paper-work mainly for decision making

MySQL Features and how it relates with Nigeria Businesses

MySQL has high performance on storage and fetching of data with fast query execution.
Nigeria businesses has more than 90% trust using MySQL due to its stability, data integrity with on-time availability.
The risk of losing data associated with the integration of MySQL database in Nigeria businesses has drastically reduced
Optimization of Data backup and recovery mechanism with cloud storage
It is a relational database because it organizes data into tables that is consisting of rows and columns

Who needs a Database?

A database is usually needed by individual or group of persons who is into any form of business activities. It can either be trading, services, manufacturing, non-profitable etc.

Why need MySQL Database?

Trading – MySQL Database is needed to keep records of sales e.g. Supermarket, fuel-stations, Drug stores, Restaurants,
Services – With no database, your services rendered may not have track of your activities
Manufacturing – Raw materials purchased with quantities, goods produced, supplied should be documented electronically
Non-profitable Organization – organizations are businesses that exist to serve a social or public cause, rather than generating profits for their owners. Every event carried out should be stored properly.

Why is MySQL best in Nigeria?

As Nigerians seek robust and affordable database solutions for their applications and systems; MySQL is a popular choice and here is why it became the best in Nigeria

Open source software capability – Anyone can use and modify the software. MySQL software is downloadable from the internet and used without paying for it. You can also change its source code to suit your needs thereby eliminate licensing fees
Compatibility with popular programming languages, frameworks, and platforms – PHP, Python, Java, JavaScript, Perl, Ruby etc.
Ease of Use – MySQL is known for its ease of installation, configuration, and administration, making it accessible to developers and administrators and finally offers user-friendly tools, utilities, and graphical interfaces for managing databases, monitoring performance, and optimizing queries all with varying levels of expertise.
Cost effectiveness – Low ownership costs thereby reduces overall expenses and freeing up resources to invest in other areas of your business
It can be designed for both Startups to Large enterprises
Security wise– User accounts can be created with unique usernames and passwords and privileges granted or revoked to control access to specific databases, tables, or their operations.

It also supports data encryption at various levels, including encryption of data in transit and encryption of data at rest

How is MySQL Database make business more efficient?

With MySQL Database integrated into that business, the following are end-result;

MySQL allows you to organize your business data into structured tables, making it easier to store, manage, and access information.
With MySQL, you can quickly retrieve the data you need for decision-making, analysis, and reporting, leading to improved operational efficiency.
You can streamline workflows, eliminate manual tasks, and improve overall productivity.

Requirements for setting up MySQL Database

A Database system is like a standard computer system parts but with some additional peripheral components such as

Server System – It is known to be a computer that renders services and functionalities to other computers (client systems) within a network. Server systems are made of –

Hardware: RAM, storage drive (HDDs or SSDs)

Operating System: This are optimized only for server tasks, e.g. Windows Server, Linux distributions (Ubuntu Server, CentOS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux), UNIX variants (FreeBSD or Solaris).

Software: Amongst them is a database server that is MySQL

Networking: A Server can be connected to LANs, WANs, or the Internet, according on the role and function of the network design.

Services and Functionality: It can be data storage, retrieval, access control, remote access and administration, data backup and recovery etc.

Additionally, purchasing storage from the cloud using AWS; amazon web services help you to Set Up, Operate and Scale Relational Databases in the Cloud.

Router/Switch (Cisco product most preferable) –

Routers: are essential for directing traffic between different networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or the Internet and it usually operates at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model

MySQL Database device for eith LAN or WAN connection

Switch: operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model. Switch allows connection of multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). Its primary aim is to reducing collisions and congestion on the network

Ethernet Cable (CAT 6) – A networking cable that transmit data from one system to another

MySQL Database Sever system connection using Cat 6 Cable

4. UPS/Inverter Installation – Power backup in the case of disruption of power system. It avoids connectivity breach

Other Components are;

Desktop Monitor
Mouse
Keyboard

Community of Developers and Contributors in Nigeria

Mr. Kazeem Olajide – The MD of Unique Technologies who is also consultant to Edo State Government on Database Design and Management

We have a direct contact, reaching out to us can lead you to the Managing Director of Unique Technologies.

Eiybase Technologies – Eiybase Solutions led Mr. Edmund Iyamu and other vibrant team members.

Our constant aim is job fulfillment, accomplishment, contributions to the society. We are here for you and you can contact us for any category of database designs

UpWork: A team of experienced developers committed to providing top-notch MySQL development services.

They offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique business needs.

A Case Study of MySQL Database Implementation

One amongst many others is the Edo State Government of Nigeria. Until 2009, the state manually processes data especially in terms of payment of salaries. Database was created for workers of the State and when this was completed;

The State could save back funds from double salaries for workers who were receiving wages from multiple Ministry/Agencies/Departments across the State.
They could detect ghost workers who were not coming to work but earning free wages. Remember, no free lunch even in free town.
Edo began its digitalization process from that step taken and lots of other benefits

Data Warehousing Wonders: A Leverage for Business Value in 2024

While Data Warehousing and Database Management Systems (DBMS) share some similarities, they serve different purposes and distinct characteristics which will make YOU decide to ADD Data Warehousing to an existing Relational Database Management System

In 2024, as Data Warehousing continues to evolve with wonders on advancements in technology, methodologies, and best practices for organization to STRIVE BEST in the terms of deliveries.

It is important we understand this fact and move into action.

Growth of Business with Data Warehousing

Definition

Data Warehousing; a process of collecting, storing, and managing large volumes of data from various sources within an organization to support decision-making and analysis for the benefits of all stake holders to the organization.

Purpose of Data Warehousing

Simply say, Data Warehousing concept is to provide a centralized reservoir where structured and unstructured data can be kept, integrated, and organized in a format optimized for querying and analysis.

It helps any Goal-Focus organization drive informed decision-making and gain competitive advantage amongst other businesses in the present and future.

Your Organizational Benefits of Creating Data Warehouse

Some may say, we are just beginning, let’s give some more time and work manually for the time being. Others can come up with excuses of not grown too well in the business to own a data ware house.

The simple truth is that you are missing out from its numerous gains of operating an organization that keeps business records in an automated data warehouse.

We are here to learn why you should create one now by exploring the untiring benefits for your organization(s).

It can enable organization(s) to gain a holistic view of their data taken from unalike sources and derive actionable insights.
It allows organizations to handle growing volumes of data thereby adapt to any prompted changes to business growth and expansion
Analytical queries (gain insights and answer business questions) and reporting (present summarized data in a structured format to communicate key findings to stakeholders) is possible with Data Warehousing
Data Warehousing ensure data privacy, integrity, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
It sure facilitates data accessibility and collaboration ONLY to its USER(S) with Permitted Access by providing self-service analytics tools, dashboards, and reporting capabilities across the organization.

7 Major Key Components of Data Warehouse

Data Warehousing have key components which help work together to support data warehousing initiatives, enable organizations to derive actionable insights, make informed decisions, and drive business value from their data assets. Amongst them are:-

Data Integration: A process of accumulating data from different sources, formats it, and systems into a unified and consistent view for its users
Data Storage: A bank that archive(store) and retrieve data for future use
Data Transformation and Cleansing: It involves modifying, restructuring, and standardizing data to ensure accuracy, consistency, reliability and quality for analysis
Querying and Analysis: Refer to the process of retrieving and examining data stored within the data warehouse to derive insights, identify patterns, and make informed decisions
Decision Support: This involves utilizing data analysis and reporting capabilities to provide stakeholders with actionable insights
Historical Trend Analysis: It helps in making informed strategic decisions based on historical data by examining past data patterns, trends to identify insights and predict tomorrow’s outcomes
Business Intelligence and Reporting: It is visualizing data from data warehouse, extract insights and generate practicable reports that supports decision making in an organization

How is Data warehousing relevance in modern business intelligence (BI) and analytics initiatives?

This centralize Data as received from multiple sources enables the organization of consolidating different data into a single source of truth
There is data consistency, accuracy, and completeness, providing a comprehensive view of business operations and performance.
It has ability to process vast datasets and derive actionable insights in a timely manner.
Support real-time and near-real-time monitoring of business performance metrics, KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), and operational metrics. It means it can track performance against goals, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions to optimize business outcomes.
It does not rely on IT or technical support by providing self-service BI tools, thereby allow user(s) to explore data, create custom reports

In summary, data warehousing is essential for modern BI and analytics initiatives as it provides a centralized and integrated platform for data storage, analysis, and reporting.

By leveraging historical and real-time data, organizations can uncover hidden patterns, forecast trends, make proactive decisions to drive growth and innovation.

Handling Data Transformations through Data Warehousing Solutions

Data transformations involve modifying, reshaping, or converting raw data from its source format into a format suitable for analysis and reporting.

These transformations may include cleaning, filtering, aggregating, combining or enriching data to meet the requirements of downstream processes, such as loading into a data warehouse.

Transformation of Data may be applied using SQL queries, Scripting Languages, or Specialized ETL tools that offer graphical interfaces for designing transformation workflows.

SQL Queries Tools are;

Talend Data Integration
Informatica PowerCenter
IBM InfoSphere DataStage
Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
Apache NiFi

Scripting Language Tools are;

Python
JavaScripts
Ruby
Perl
Bash

Specialized ETL Tools are;

Apache NiFi
Pentaho Data Integration (Kettle)
Oracle Data Integrator (ODI)
Talend Data Integration
Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS)
IBM InfoSphere DataStage
Informatica PowerCenter

Creating a Data Warehousing is one thing, but we have to go extra length in securing the data especially for sensitive ones.

Now, let us consider how to keep you data protected from an un-authorized user(s)

3 Best Methods for Securing Sensitive Data in Your Data Warehousing

Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data from interception by using encryption algorithms

Examples –

Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) – Secures data stored within data warehouse
Transport Layer Security (TLS) – Secures data transmission

Encryption of Data

Access controls and authentication mechanisms on any of the Data Transformation Tool: It restricts access to sensitive data with user roles, privileges, and permissions based on job responsibilities.

Examples –

Administrators Roles; Read-only, read-write permissions with overall access
Data Analysts Roles; Read-only, read-write permission with level access
Business Users Roles; Read-only

Limiting Control of Access to data

Data masking technique: It keeps sensitive information hidden in non-production environments. This technique replaces sensitive data with scrambled values while preserving data format and structure.

Example –

Mask personally identifiable information (PII) with randomized or hashed equivalents.

4 Reasons of Adding Data Warehousing Alongside Database Management System

Purpose;

Data Warehousing provide a centralized repository for storing and analyzing large volumes of structured and unstructured data from various sources

Database Management System is software systems that manage and organize structured data in databases

2. Data Structure;

Data Warehousing typically store large volumes of historical and current data in a structured format and incorporate dimensional modeling techniques

DBMSs manage structured data stored in databases using tables, rows, and columns

3. Usage;

Data warehouses are primarily used for decision support, business intelligence, and analytics

DBMSs are used for transaction processing, data storage, and retrieval in operational applications which handles day-to-day transactions.

4. Scope;

Data warehousing points at providing an extensive view of organizational data by integrating and consolidating data from multi-dimensional source and supports analytical processes.

DBMS manage data within personal databases, supporting specific applications or business functions such as customer relationship management (CRM) and others

Finally, if you have followed closely on our article on Data Warehousing Wonders, it is the best time to begin your data storage.

Designing Data Warehousing for your organization with no limit on size or years of operation of the organization.

8 Top Databases in Nigeria, Explore the Most Popular

Best top DB in Nigeria

Effective database design and management require a combination of technical knowledge, analytical skills, and attention to detail. Regularly reviewing and adapting your database design and management practices helps ensure the database meets evolving business needs and performs optimally.

Let us try to explore the best top 8 Popular Databases in 2023 beginning with the Last to First.

Best Top 8 Popular Databases in 2023

8. Oracle Database:
Oracle Database has played a crucial role in the development of enterprise-grade database systems, and its evolution reflects the changing landscape of technology, with an increasing emphasis on cloud computing and internet-related capabilities.

Oracle Database

The history of Oracle Database is significant in the evolution of relational database management systems (RDBMS) with a key milestones on its history

In 1977 Oracle Corporation was founded by Larry Ellison and his two friends; Bob Miner and Ed Oates and have stayed till date with Oracle Database 19c which have continued the trend of cloud-focused features and improvements in performance, security, and manageability.

7. MariaDB: This is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that originated as a fork of MySQL. MariaDB was created in 2009 by Michael “Monty” Widenius, the original author of MySQL, as a response to concerns about the direction of MySQL under Oracle Corporation’s ownership.

It has gained popularity over the years with its focus on open source, community driven development and compatibility with MySQL and its last version in 2021 with MariaDB 10.6 and continued the trend of performance improvements and introduced features such as the roles system, Oracle compatibility enhancements, and support for a default database.

6. Redis: Redis, an acronym for REmote DIctionary Server, is an open-source, in-memory data structure store. It was created by Salvatore Sanfilippo, also known as Antirez.

Its initial release was in May, 2009 by Salvatore Sanfilippo. Its development was motivated by the need for a faster and more scalable database system for a startup where Sanfilippo was working at the time.

In 2020, released Redis 6.2 which is still very useful today in database designs and management.
While in April 2021, Redis 6.2 brought support for Active-Active Geo-Distribution, allowing data to be distributed and synchronized across multiple Redis clusters in different geographical locations.

5. MongoDB: MongoDB is a widely used NoSQL database that stores data in flexible, JSON-like documents. MongoDB was created by 10gen, a company founded by Dwight Merriman, Eliot Horowitz, and Kevin Ryan in 2007.

Lastest of its release was in July, 2021 when MongoDB 5.0 was lunched, included features like native time series collections, sharded cluster improvements, and support for distributed transactions.

MongoDB has continued to evolve, and its development is driven by the needs of its user community and the broader industry trends.

4. SQLite: A self-contained, serverless, and zero-configuration relational database management system. I have experienced its uniqueness over time and i did love using it especially from it back end query. SQLite was first released in August 2000 by D. Richard Hipp.

It is an embedded database with library that is directly linked with the front-end application.

The latest version of SQLite its SQLite 3.35.0 that introduced File Format 4, optimizing the database file format for performance. It also included enhancements to window functions, improvements to the query planner, and other optimizations. Explore it and tell the story.

3. Microsoft SQL Server: It is used by Wells Fargo, Harris Corporation, General Electric, Yahoo. Microsoft SQL Server has evolved significantly since its first release, and several features and characteristics have contributed to its uniqueness over the years.

The first release of Microsoft SQL Server was in 1989. This initial version, SQL Server 1.0, was developed in collaboration with Sybase. The latest stable version was Microsoft SQL Server 2019 in year 2019.

2. PostgreSQL: PostgreSQL, often referred to as “Postgres,” is an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that is used by Instagram, Spotify, Twitch, IMDB and lot of others was released in 1986

The origins of PostgreSQL can be traced back to the POSTGRES project, which was initiated by Michael Stonebraker and his team at the University of California, Berkeley.

But not limited to their release was when PostgreSQL 13 was released in 2021. This Version 13 introduced improvements to query performance, better parallelism in B-tree index builds, and various enhancements for security.

1. MySQL: Used by pretty much everyone.
It is a popular open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that has been widely used since its inception.

MySQL Database

MySQL is a popular open-source relational database management system (RDBMS) that has been widely used since its inception. Moreover, MySQL 8.0, released in April 2018, introduced major improvements, such as the Data Dictionary for better metadata management, a new default authentication method, and increased support for modern SQL features.

Several Factors Why MYSQL is Preferred to Other Databases in 2023

1. Open Source Nature: MySQL’s open-source nature fosters a large and active community, contributing to its continued development, support, and adaptability.

2. Community Support: MySQL has a vibrant community that provides support, resources, and extensions, making it a reliable choice for developers and organizations.

3. Ease of Use: MySQL is known for its simplicity and ease of use. It’s easy to install, configure, and integrate with various programming languages and frameworks.

4. Performance and Scalability: MySQL has a reputation for good performance and scalability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from small websites to large-scale enterprise systems.

5. Wide Adoption in Web Development: MySQL is commonly used in web development, especially with popular content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal.

6. Enterprise Deployment: Many enterprises use MySQL for mission-critical applications, and it’s often included in various software stacks and solutions.

7. Compatibility and Standard SQL Support: MySQL adheres to SQL standards, ensuring compatibility with other databases and making it easy for developers to transition between different database systems.

8. Ongoing Development and Releases: MySQL continues to evolve with regular releases, incorporating new features, optimizations, and security enhancements.

9. MySQL Forks and Alternatives: Forks of MySQL, such as MariaDB and Percona Server, provide alternative options with additional features and improvements, contributing to the overall MySQL ecosystem.

Exploring the Best 5 Top Database Tools in 2023

There are various types of database tools catering to different aspects of database management, development, and administration. Here are five major categories of database tools along with examples:

1. Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) Tools:
a. MySQL Workbench: A visual database design tool for MySQL.
b. Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS): A tool for managing SQL Server databases.
c. Oracle SQL Developer: An integrated development environment (IDE) for Oracle Database.

2. NoSQL Database Tools:
a. MongoDB Compass: A graphical user interface for MongoDB.
b. Cassandra Query Language (CQL) Shell: A command-line interface for Apache Cassandra.
c. Redis CLI: Command-line interface for interacting with Redis.

3. Database Design and Modeling Tools:
a. ERStudio: A tool for data modeling, data governance, and business process modeling.
b. Lucidchart: An online diagramming tool that includes features for database design.
c. DbVisualizer: A universal database tool for developers, analysts, and database administrators.

4. Database Administration Tools:
a. phpMyAdmin: A web-based tool for managing MySQL and MariaDB databases.
b. pgAdmin: An open-source administration and management tool for PostgreSQL.
c. SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS): A comprehensive tool for managing SQL Server databases.

5. Database Development Tools:
a. Toad: A tool for database development and administration, supporting various database systems.
b. SQL Developer: An integrated development environment for Oracle Database.
c. DbForge Studio: A set of database tools for SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL.

These tools serve different purposes, and the choice of a specific tool often depends on the type of database system being used, the tasks at hand, and personal or organizational preferences.