What is Flat File Database?
A Flat File Database is a type of database that stores data in a plain text file. Each line of the file represents a data record, with each data field separated by a delimiter (such as a comma, a tab, or a semicolon). Flat File Databases are commonly used for small-scale applications or as intermediate stages in large data processing tasks.
Functionality and Features
Flat File Databases are best known for their simplicity, portability and ease of use. They don't require a complex database management system, can be read and written by many programs, and they are easy to understand even for non-technical users.
Architecture
The architecture of a Flat File Database is straightforward. It consists of a single table of records, with each record having one or more fields. A unique identifier or key may be used to reference each record.
Benefits and Use Cases
Flat File Databases are ideally suited for small-scale applications with simple data requirements. They are frequently employed in data analysis, particularly when handling individual data files. Their simplicity allows data scientists to easily import and export data for quick analysis.
Challenges and Limitations
One of the main limitations of Flat File Databases is their scalability. As data complexity and volume increases, so does the difficulty of managing and accessing data. They lack the mechanisms for robust data management features, like concurrent use, data integrity assurance, and efficient indexing.
Integration with Data Lakehouse
While Flat File Databases have their own limitations, they can be efficiently used in a data lakehouse environment as an intermediate data stage or for lightweight data tasks. Data can be extracted from a flat file, processed and loaded into a more scalable and robust system like a data lakehouse, which combines the advantages of data lakes and data warehouses.
Security Aspects
Flat File Databases often lack built-in security measures. Therefore, access controls and data protection measures need to be managed at the application or operating system level.
Performance
Performance is typically not a major concern with small data sets. However, as data grows in size and complexity, a Flat File Database can become inefficient, with longer access times and increased storage requirements.
FAQs
What is a Flat File Database? - A Flat File Database is a simple database that stores data in a plain text file, with each record on a separate line and each field delimited by a specific character.
What are the benefits of a Flat File Database? - They are simple to create and manage, portable, and easy to understand and use. They are suitable for small datasets and simple applications.
What are the limitations of Flat File Databases? - They lack scalability, data integrity assurance, efficient data access, and built-in security features.
Can Flat File Databases be integrated with a data lakehouse? - Yes, they can serve as an intermediate data stage or be used for lightweight data tasks within a data lakehouse setup.
What are the security aspects of Flat File Databases? - Flat File Databases typically do not have built-in security features, so access control and data protection need to be managed externally, at the application or OS level.
Glossary
Data Lakehouse - A hybrid data management platform that combines the features of data lakes and data warehouses.
Data Lake - A storage repository that holds a vast amount of raw data in its native format until it is needed.
Delimiter - A character used to separate data fields in a flat file.
Data Warehouses - A large store of data collected from a wide range of sources used to guide business decisions.
Scalability - The capacity of a system to handle increased workloads by adding resources.
