What does OLTP stand for in database terminology?

OLTP stands for Online Transaction Processing. This term is crucial in the realm of database management and design. OLTP systems are designed to manage a large number of transactions by multiple users simultaneously in real time.

The primary functions of OLTP systems include inserting, updating, and deleting small amounts of data, typically in applications that require high efficiency and reliability. This makes OLTP suitable for applications like inventory management systems, banking applications, and any environment where user's transactions occur frequently and need to be processed quickly. The speed and efficiency of OLTP systems support the requirements of real-time transaction processing, where data integrity and consistency are paramount.

In contrast to OLTP, other concepts such as batch processing or analytical processing (OLAP - Online Analytical Processing) serve different purposes in the database realm. Batch processing involves handling large volumes of data without immediate user interaction, while OLAP deals with complex queries and data analysis, rather than transaction management. Thus, understanding the characteristics and applications of OLTP helps in selecting the appropriate technology for specific business needs.