Database administration (DBA) refers to a technical function within the database environment. Does it necessarily apply to the entire organization?
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AValid statement
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BInvalid statement
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CApplies only in centralized IT departments
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DAmbiguous — depends on DBMS vendor
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ENot applicable to relational databases
Answer
Correct Answer: Invalid statement
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Many learners confuse “data administration” (enterprise-wide governance) with “database administration” (DBA), which is a technical role focused on specific database systems. This question tests whether you can distinguish the scope of DBA work from broader, organization-wide data governance functions.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- DBA tasks include installation, configuration, backup/restore, performance tuning, security configuration, and availability for particular databases.
- Organization-wide concerns such as data policies, stewardship, and enterprise data standards fall under data administration or data governance.
- Large organizations may have multiple DBAs aligned to different platforms or business units, not necessarily a single enterprise-spanning DBA scope.
Concept / Approach:The statement claims DBA “applies to the entire organization.” This wording better fits the role known as data administration or data governance. DBA is typically narrower: it applies to the managed database environments. While DBAs support enterprise applications, their function is defined by the databases they administer, not by all organizational information assets.
Step-by-Step Solution:Identify the role boundaries: DBA focuses on DBMS operations and security inside the database tier.Contrast with data administration: organization-wide policies, data quality, and ownership.Evaluate the claim “applies to the entire organization”: that generalizes beyond normal DBA scope.Therefore, the statement is not accurate as written.
Verification / Alternative check:Review job descriptions: DBAs manage instances and clusters; Chief Data Officers and data governance councils handle enterprise-wide information strategy.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:“Valid statement” conflates DBA with enterprise governance. “Centralized IT only” is organizational structure, not a definition. “Vendor dependent” and “not applicable” are irrelevant.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming “database” equals “all data” and expanding DBA scope to enterprise policy; overlooking the separation between governance and operations.
Final Answer:Invalid statement