Foreword to
Oracle8
for Dummies
by Ned Dana, 1997.
My introduction to Oracle was in 1980 during an interview at Relational
Software, Inc. (as the company was then known) where Bob Miner
was showing me a few things on his terminal. I remember being
particularly taken by the elegance and simplicity of SQL when
Bob explained that the output of any query (on a table, or set
of tables) was itself another table. The next year, I was helping
Miner, Scott, and others to develop Oracle version 3 -- a complete
re-write in the C language. This investment for portability was
one of the early design decisions that led to Oracle8 being the
best database on the market today.
Perhaps this book will be your introduction to Oracle8. If so,
you are in for a treat. The author covers in a straightforward
and conversational manner material that is by nature complex and
difficult. Rather than wading through all the details, she touches
on key points, which serves not only to get the reader started,
but also provides inspiration. Her light hearted style is backed
by many years of experience.
If you are new to relational databases, you will appreciate the
many examples of simple database designs. In the two chapters
on relational theory alone, there are eight examples, ranging
from doctor's office information to bread making. As you consider
each example, you will begin to get a feel for how relational
databases are used to model real world situations.
Besides the world of relational databases in general, this book
focuses on the Oracle8 database engine, its language of SQL, and
the tools that come with the database, particularly Enterprise
Manager and SQL*Plus. The basics of SQL queries (how you ask
Oracle8 for information) are covered, and the author shows you
enough of SQL*Plus to let you begin to use its report writing
capabilities. She even gives you some fancy tricks not taught
in the standard Oracle education classes.
The author's background as a database administrator shows up as
she discusses important issues of backup and recovery, security,
space allocation, and how Oracle8 actually works inside. Sections
on using indexes and tuning SQL statements are a definite plus.
Oracle8 For Dummies is a great introduction ot Oracle. After
you've worked with Oracle for awhile, you may realize, as many
people do, that your business needs exceed your database-building
skills. That's when you call a consultant.
My company, Rare & Dear, Inc., is a Hawaii-based Oracle consulting
group specializing in project management and the design and administration
of Oracle databases and applications. As our name indicates,
we are committed to excellence in our staff and the work we do,
and, of course, the place we live! If you are interested in our
company, you can reach us at 888-RareDear (888-727-3332) or see
our web site: http://www.rare-dear.com
Ned Dana
President, Rare & Dear, Inc.
Oracle8 For Dummies, by Carol McCullough
Published by IDG Books Worldwide, Inc.
An International Data Group Company
919 E. Hillsdale Blvd., Suite 400
Foster City, CA 94404
(415) 655-3200
