“A database is an organized collection of data for one or more purposes, usually in digital form. The data are typically organized to model relevant aspects of reality (for example, the availability of rooms in hotels), in a way that supports processes requiring this information”. [1] Aside of the use of the databases on Zoho, I have limited experience with database composition software, however, during my years in college I have come across several kinds of databases I have used to collect information. The one I have spent the most time using has been JSTOR.
Like the very popular EBSCO Host, JSTOR is an online database that houses journals, documents, and other primary sources that can be used in doing research and writing papers. “JSTOR connects libraries, researchers, teachers, and students around the world with vital scholarly content in more than 50 disciplines.” [2] This database makes research very simple, because you can search by topic, discipline, or keywords and find thousands of journals, articles, and other information that can help you complete your task. I have used this program dozens of times when I first earned my Bachelor's in History, since it provides many journal articles that would be almost impossible to find in a library on campus. The database saves many hours of rummaging around a library looking for dusty old documents that haven't been touched in years, and puts them on your computer within seconds.
JSTOR decided to store the work to servers that provide an online database, rather than using installed software like other research programs. “JSTOR's choices of technology have flowed directly from its mission. Because it is our goal to save money in the long-run for libraries, it is essential that the storage of the database be centralized, with distribution taking place via the Internet. Delivering the database via CD-ROM would simply add material to thousands of libraries that librarians would have to store and preserve for future patrons.” [3] Also, by having it centralized on servers, it makes it easier to add new features and information, rather than having to constantly put out new software and updates for everyone using the database.
Questions:
One of the biggest challenges that JSTOR faces is cost. There is a subscription fee to use the database, which many universities subscribe to. However, I would have never used the program if it weren't for school, so getting the database to individuals would be a bigger challenge.
It provides a competitive advantage to those using it because it now saves libraries valuable space and money, it saves users time and effort searching for these documents and journals, and it makes everything in one centralized location which can effortlessly be used to find information.
I would improve JSTOR by improving the search feature. I remember when I used it, it would be very difficult to narrow what you wanted down. You would get thousands of hits for topics, unless you specifically knew what you wanted. Possibly letting users review the information and giving a rating, then sorting by rating, could greatly improve the database.
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Database
[2] http://www.jstor.org/
[3] http://www.dlib.org/dlib/july97/07guthrie.html
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