Assist with Project Management

As a database administrator, you'll be responsible for the performance, integrity and security of a database. However, depending on the organisation and your level of responsibility, the role can vary from inputting information through to total management of data. Different businesses will have different database needs and diverse requirements. In hospitals for example, databases will record patient information, whilst private companies are more likely to store customer details, sales records and more. This information is used to structure and organise the business, deliver target marketing and services and design business strategies. Depending on your level of responsibility, typical tasks may include: Assisting in database design Updating and amending existing databases Setting up and testing new database and data handling systems Monitoring database efficiency Sustaining the security and integrity of data Creating complex query definitions that allow data to be extracted Training colleagues in how to input and extract data Increasingly, the role of a database administrator is defined by the particular processes and capabilities of the database management system in place. However, the work you do will greatly assist other members of the organisation, including analysts, programmers and IT managers who all require reports to collate information for planning, reference and communications purposes. Much of the necessary experience required for this type of role can be gained through a previous job in IT support, programming or web development. Alternatively, there are entry routes through graduate training programmes and apprenticeship schemes.