Which of the following is a characteristic of a database?

A database is primarily designed to organize, store, and manage data in a structured way, allowing for easy access, retrieval, and manipulation. One key characteristic is its ability to organize data into a series of integrated files, which enables users to manage relationships between different data sets effectively. This structure typically includes tables, records, and fields that work together to form a cohesive whole, facilitating efficient data management and querying.

In contrast to the other statements, while external data storage may utilize a database, it is not an exclusive characteristic of one. The generation of marketing reports is often a function of software applications that analyze the data within a database rather than a function of the database itself. Additionally, a database does not function independently of a database management system (DBMS), as the DBMS is crucial for the creation, maintenance, and management of the database, providing the tools needed to interact with the data effectively. Thus, the ability of a database to organize data in a series of integrated files stands out as the defining characteristic.