:: Databases


What's possible?

Querying a database that sits behind a search engine is merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to using a database to provide dynamic content for your website visitors. What follows are some examples of what can be done by employing a database to drive a website.

Directories:
Much like a search engine, you can provide a directory of contacts or events on the Web that can be searched in a number of ways. The data is stored in a database and can be searched through a Web interface using various methods to display the information. Information in your Database can include products you want to sell on the internet to simple event Calendars, whatever you wish to have in your database, you have control over whats displayed and how it will be presented.

Libraries:
If you have a large number of documents that you want to make available to the public on the Web, you might consider developing a database-driven library of these documents that would allow people to search for certain documents or browse lists of categorised documents. These documents can be made available in either PDF or WORD format. You can even set up a facility for your visitors to purchase the documents.

Surveys:
Aggregating data from surveys can be a valuable way for you to evaluate programs or collect information from your members or people who care about your work. Sending out paper surveys and doing the data entry to analyse your results can be frustrating and time consuming, so using the Web to collect that information, assuming a reasonable percentage of those you hope to reach have Internet access, is a great way to simplify the process.

Internal databases:
All of the above examples concern public websites, but you could also consider using the Web to store an internal database that you can share with staff members or collaborators across a diverse geography.

Database management:
When your needs exceed basic site design and a "brochure-type" presence on the web, a database driven sites offers the best solution. BDIMedia can design a database that will serve dynamic content and integrate powerful scripts with a professionally designed user interface. This means going beyond the interface to give the user unlimited content or customized (and sometimes password protected) access to their interests such as finding something in particular, obtaining confirmation that actions have been completed, making customized database operations etc.
When it comes to dynamic applications, virtually anything can be achieved so please contact us to discuss your business requirements and allow us to develop a solution for you. Depending on the particular project, we usually employ either PHP & MySQL or ASP.net and we can also offer other technologies for integration within your business.