What is a Database Website?

A database-driven website, also called a dynamic website, is an interactive site that gathers information and stores it in a behind-the-scenes database that can then be accessed by either the website owner or the website user. . The storage area for the information is called a database. The need for and use of such websites are constantly increasing. According to Sean Jackson, manager of database development at Heritage Web Solutions, approximately 85% of all of the websites Heritage designs make use of a database.

Database-driven websites are in demand because consumers’ needs for information gathering, access and interaction continue to rise. Every time you order a product, fill out a form or access your membership information you are using a database-driven website.
A few examples of Database Functions:

• Membership Sites - http://www.hwdweb.com/dating.shtml
• Real Estate Listings - http://www.hwdweb.com/real_estate.shtml
• Interactive Calendars - http://www.hwdweb.com/calendar_php.shtml
• Blogs - http://www.hwdweb.com/Blog.shtml
• Online Stores - http://www.hwdweb.com/shopping_cart.shtml
• Product Catalogs - http://www.hwdweb.com/shopping_cart.shtml
• Payment Forms - http://www.hwdweb.com/advanced_payment_form.shtml
• Automobile Dealer Listings - http://www.hwdweb.com/auto_featured_cars.shtml
• Subscription Forms - http://www.hwdweb.com/double_optin.shtml
• Chat room Features - http://www.hwdweb.com/flashchat.shtml
• Secured Applications - http://www.hwdweb.com/secured_form_20_fields.shtml
• Forums and Bulletin Boards - http://www.hwdweb.com/forum_bullitinboard.shtml
• News Feeds - http://www.hwdweb.com/zfeeder.shtml
• Logins - http://www.hwdweb.com/java_script_login.shtml
• Newsletter Sign-ins - http://www.hwdweb.com/double_optin.shtml
In considering the need for a database-driven website, you should assess the type of interaction you want to have with your customers or visitors. If you need to gather, present or display changing information from your website, then you will require a database program to perform those actions.
What To Do Next

As a business owner considering the options to incorporate into your website, take the time to discuss your business needs with a professional firm. Many of your database needs may have already been created for use in multiple websites. With modest revisions, they can be adapted to your needs. This potentially can save you significant time and money. And remember, for all of your database and other website needs, the friendly staff at Heritage Web Solutions are just a phone call away.