Product positioning: Which DBMS combines a database engine with an application generator in a single product aimed at end users and small teams?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Microsoft's Access

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Some products provide not only a DBMS engine but also built-in tools to rapidly create forms, reports, and small applications. Recognizing this positioning helps match tools to use cases.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Products: SQL Server, Access, DB2, Oracle.
  • Definition: “Application generator” implies wizards/designers for forms, reports, macros, and simple logic without full-scale coding.


Concept / Approach:
Microsoft Access is both a file-based desktop database and a RAD environment for building data-centric apps quickly, including forms and reports. Enterprise DBMSs (SQL Server, Oracle, DB2) emphasize server-scale features and expect external application tiers.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Check for integrated forms/reports designer → Access has native UI designers, macros, and VBA.SQL Server/Oracle/DB2 → rely on external app frameworks (e.g., .NET, Java, APEX is separate from the core DBMS install).Hence, the combined DBMS + app generator role is best matched by Access.


Verification / Alternative check:
Product literature describes Access as part of Microsoft Office, highlighting rapid form/report creation backed by Jet/ACE database engine.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They are enterprise RDBMS platforms; while tools exist in their ecosystems, their core product is not an end-user application generator.



Common Pitfalls:
Equating optional ecosystem tools with a fully integrated end-user app builder.



Final Answer:
Microsoft's Access

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion