What does 'data integrity' refer to in database management?

Data integrity in database management refers to the accuracy and consistency of data within a database. This concept is crucial because it ensures that the data stored is reliable and can be trusted for decision-making and analysis. Data integrity involves various procedures and checks, such as validation rules, constraints, and error-checking mechanisms, that help maintain the quality of the data by preventing invalid or corrupted entries from being entered into the system.

When data integrity is upheld, it contributes to the overall reliability of the database, reducing the likelihood of errors that could arise from inconsistent or inaccurate data. This is especially important in applications where decisions are based on data, such as in financial records, scientific research, and enterprise resource planning.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of data integrity. The prevention of database access relates more to security measures rather than the quality of the data itself. The design of database tables addresses the structural organization of data rather than its integrity. Lastly, the total volume of data stored pertains to capacity and storage considerations and does not reflect the quality or correctness of the data.